As one of the most prominent families of south Arkansas, the Mahonys distinguished themselves via the practice of law, a family legacy that has practiced continually since St. Patrick’s Day 1896. Various family members leveraged their legal knowledge toward pursuits in politics and other initiatives for the public good. Nowhere in the line was this dedication more conspicuous than among three brothers Joseph “Jodie” Mahony (1939-2009), Emon Mahony Jr. (1941-) and Michael Mahony (1944-2001). Together with their father, Emon Sr., the three brothers combined their respective talents and influence at the state, federal and local levels in the acquisition of the 65,000-acre National Wildlife Refuge at Felsenthal.
