Bette J. Thornhill

Bette Jane Jones Thornhill was a very compassionate and committed social worker with a heart dedicated to service.

A lifelong resident of Huntington, West Virginia (WV), Bette was born November 11, 1926, to Gustan and Fannie Meade Jones. She happily attended all black schools, including Barnett and Douglass High School, where she was taught and influenced by African American teachers. Her teacher and mentor, Lavinia Norman (founding member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated) supported her goals and encouraged her to attend college.

Bette was a math whiz and enrolled in West Virginia State College (now University). In college, she started a hairdressing business to help pay for school and was initiated into Nu Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She earned her undergraduate degree from WVSU and went on to pursue graduate studies in Social Work from West Virginia University. Bette worked full time for the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) and operated a concierge business. During her tenure at WVDHHR she was appointed as a commissioner to the West Virginia Human Rights Commission, which is tasked with ensuring adherence to the Human Rights Act which prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and places of public accommodation. She retired in 1988 and was remembered for her strong, faithful advocacy for the underserved, especially children, in the Huntington community.

Bette had a profound love for her family and community which was the anchor of her life. She was a dedicated member of the Usher Board at First Baptist Church and participated in the church’s women’s organizations. Her faith was evident in her work. A 67-year member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority (AKA), Incorporated, she was truly Golden. She continued to work with Beta Tau Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated in Huntington and other AKA chapters when traveling to other locations while visiting family and friends. She enjoyed playing bingo, bowling, watching game shows, promoting family and community, and working towards equity.

Bette was an avid volunteer for Cabell Huntington Hospital donating over 7500 hours providing vital services to patients and visitors and participating in fund-raising activities for hospital projects. She never met a stranger and showed kindness to all with her sweet spirit until her final transition on May 23, 2013.