Patricia “Pat” Lopez, the former Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Director, passed away on March 2, 2024, at her home in Lincoln, Nebraska, after a brief illness. Her passing is a profound loss for the public health community, as she dedicated her life to improving the health and well-being of Lincoln and Lancaster County residents.
Lopez began her career in 1975 as a public health nurse with the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD). For 29 years, she worked tirelessly to develop healthcare programs for Medicaid recipients, expand access to health services in underserved areas, and mentor a team of skilled public health nurses. She retired in 2004 but remained actively engaged in shaping public health policies at the state and national levels.
Her leadership was instrumental in establishing Nebraska’s statewide public health system, helping local health departments achieve national accreditation, and serving as the President of the Public Health Association of Nebraska.
In 2019, she returned to LLCHD as Interim Health Director, a role that soon became permanent. She played a crucial role in leading Lincoln through the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the city had some of the highest vaccination rates and lowest mortality rates in the nation. Her initiatives, including the Youth Substance Use Prevention Project and Family Connects program, continue to impact countless lives.
Pat Lopez Obituary Lincoln NE
| Full Name | Patricia “Pat” Lopez |
| Date of Passing | March 2, 2024 |
| Place of Passing | Lincoln, Nebraska |
| Cause of Death | Brief illness |
| Career Duration | Nearly 50 years |
| Notable Roles | Public Health Nurse, LLCHD Director, Statewide Public Health Advocate |
| Major Contributions | Led Lincoln through COVID-19, expanded public health programs, national accreditation efforts |
| Public Reaction | Tributes from city officials, public health leaders, and community members |
| Legacy | A compassionate leader who strengthened Nebraska’s public health system |
Tributes from City Officials
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird
“I am heartbroken by the passing of my dear friend and trusted colleague, Pat Lopez. Pat was a steadfast protector of our community, a source of wisdom and strength in our most challenging moments, and a public health champion whose legacy will endure for generations. Through the pandemic and beyond, Pat was my partner in guiding Lincoln through unprecedented times. Her steady hand, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of our residents saved lives and strengthened our city. I will miss her counsel, her leadership, and her friendship. Lincoln is a healthier, safer, and stronger place because of Pat Lopez.”
Kerry Kernen, Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department Director
“We’re very saddened to hear of former Director Pat Lopez’s passing. This is not only a great loss for Lincoln and Lancaster County, it is a great loss for Nebraska. Pat’s passion for public health was evident throughout her 50-year career. She was instrumental in securing Nebraska’s public health funding and national accreditation for local health departments. We were fortunate to have her at the helm of the Health Department, especially during the pandemic, and we will honor her memory as we continue doing the work she loved so much.”
Lopez never sought the spotlight, but her influence was profound and far-reaching. Her efforts in public health leadership, disease prevention, and healthcare accessibility have left a lasting mark on Nebraska and beyond. She will be remembered as a mentor, advocate, and leader, whose passion for public service changed countless lives.
Barbara Torrey Clegg shared “Aww, I’m so sad that our wise and courageous former county health director, Pat Lopez, passed away on Sunday. She had just been honored again a few weeks ago for her many contributions. She was a master’s-level public health nurse and had served as president of the Public Health Association of Nebraska and manager of the community health division of the Lancaster County Health Department. After 29 years of service, she semi-retired at age 52 but continued to consult with the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services and advocated for legislation and funding.