In Memory of

Professor

Emeritus

Iverson

L.

Warinner

Obituary for Professor Emeritus Iverson L. Warinner

Iverson Lewis Warinner

October 28, 1944 - January 25, 2024

Iverson Lewis Warinner, an esteemed professor and accomplished actor, passed away on January 25, 2024, in Louisville, Kentucky. He was born on October 28, 1944, in Albany, Kentucky, to Edgar Paul Warinner and Josephine Dempsey Warinner. Iverson was preceded in death by his siblings Edgar Paul Warinner, Jr., Joanne Katherine Warinner, David "Buzz" Sawyer, and David Hartwell Sawyer.

Iverson Lewis Warinner is survived by his loving sister Harriett Warinner Hile, her Husband Steve Warren Hile. His nieces and nephews Stephen Paul Hile, Nicole Zinner Hile, Jonathan Dempsey Hile, Nicholas Joseph Hile, Megan Faris Hile, Scott Thomas Hile, Stephen Eugene Hile. His Great-Nieces and Nephews Lillian Grace Hile, Katelynn Rose Hile, Jackson Nicholas Hile, Stephen Gregory Hile, Annie Jean Hile, John Joseph Hile,

Iverson's passion for education was evident throughout his life. He graduated from Clinton County High School in 1962 and pursued further studies in Theatre, History, and French at Berea College, where he graduated in 1966. He continued his studies at Corral Playhouse at Eastern New Mexico University, Indiana University (Bloomington), and Eastern Kentucky University, receiving his Rank III in 1969 and a Master's degree in 1977. He also received Rank Certification and Rank II in Theatre from Spalding University in 1985 and 1986, respectively.

Throughout his career, Iverson made significant contributions to the field of education. He started his journey as a Secondary School Teacher at Garfield Senior High, where he taught French and Theatre. Iverson later became a teacher at Taylorsville High School, where he excelled in teaching English Grammar, Literature, French, Speech, and Theatre. He was also instrumental in creating a top-rated theatre program, leading to numerous awards for the school's yearbook and newspaper.

Iverson's passion for acting was evident in his involvement in various theatre groups. He performed as an actor in the Corral Playhouse in Portales, New Mexico, during the summer of 1967. He was a Director, Actor, and Public Relations member of the Summer Arena Theatre at Berea College from 1968 to 1971. Additionally, Iverson showcased his talent at the Henrietta Child Children's Theatre in Berea, Kentucky, where he played lead roles for four seasons.

One of Iverson's notable roles was as the Theatre Manager, Public Relations Director at the Wilderness Road Outdoor Drama in Berea, Kentucky, where he worked for six seasons. His dedication and expertise contributed to the success of the drama. Iverson's commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, as he served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at Indiana University, teaching honors public speaking.

In 1990, Iverson joined General Electric (GE) as a Communication Trainer and Consultant, providing valuable insights and expertise until his retirement in September 2016. Iverson's passion for education and theatre led him to become a Professor Emeritus of Communication and Theatre at Spalding University. He served in this position from August 1977 until his retirement in June 2014, leaving a lasting impact on his students and colleagues.
In 1996, Iverson played the part of “Saltz” on The Pretender as well as an extra on an episode of Chicago Hope.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Iverson found joy in his hobbies and interests. Theatre held a special place in his heart, and he was a dedicated member of the First Baptist Church in Taylorsville, Kentucky. He also had a profound love for travel, education, and, above all, his family.

Visitation will be Friday, February 9th from 11am-12pm at First Baptist Church in Taylorsville, KY with his Memorial service at 12pm.


In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the First Baptist Church in Taylorsville, KY.