Bettye Dobson Wilson left her earthly home Thursday, October 8, 2020. She was the only child of Dr. Andrew E. and Mildred G. Dobson. Bettye was born in Chicago April 4, 1927, a true Aries. Her father was the first Black dentist in the Western Suburbs. Her mother was a teacher with the Chicago Board of Education for 35 years.
Bettye was a graduate of Ohio University at Athens, Ohio. She majored in journalism and received her BA degree in 1949.
She also married WWII hero Selwyn J. Wilson in 1949. To that union 4 children were born: Mark, Toni, Scott, and Kellye.
Bettye wrote and had published, “We Are All Americans” in 1959. It was a study in human relations for children and remained a tool in education for over 10 years. She also wrote numerous short stories and expressed her opinions through editorials often published by the Chicago Sun-Times.
As all who know her can testify. Bettye’s passion was dolls. After her retirement she devoted most of her time to sewing for and “playing with” her beloved fashion dolls. Bettye was outspoken often painfully so. But you always knew she meant what she said.
Bettye must have been ready to leave this earth because she always said she wouldn’t go if she wasn’t ready.
Bettye is preceded in death by her son Scott. She leaves behind her son Mark and daughters Toni and Kellye, grandsons Dante’ and Damon, and granddaughters Whitney and Brittany Wilson and great-grandchildren Dayle and Dayna.
Director of South Parkway YWCA 1961—1966
Director Maywood Head Start Program 1966—1967
Director Marcy Center for the Chicago Federation of Settlements 1967—1969
Madden Mental Health Counselor/Administrator 1969—1989
Post Graduate Work George Williams College 1971—1973
Cared for at least 9 cats
Has over 1000 dolls
Visitation Friday, October 16, 2020, 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Chapel Hill Gardens West Funeral Home, 17W201 Roosevelt Road, Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois 60181.
Funeral Service Saturday, October 17, 2020, 11:00 AM.
Interment Chapel Hill Gardens West Cemetery.
In consideration of the safety of our guests and associates, Chapel Hill Gardens West Funeral Home will adhere to the current gathering restrictions in the state of Illinois, which allow 50 or fewer guests at services. Proper social distancing must be practiced and all guests will be required to wear face masks at all times. Thank you for your cooperation.
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