Elizabeth “Betty” Jane Kendall, one of Ball State University’s oldest graduates and a lifelong supporter, has passed away. She was 106 years old.
“Jennifer and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Betty,” said Ball County President Jeffrey S. Mearns. “She is a light in her community, Muncie, a woman who has achieved so much in her amazing life. I am lucky to call you a friend.”
Kendall agreed to attend Ball State Teachers College for two years, believing he would be transferred elsewhere if his father’s demands were met. After two years, however, Betty realized she no longer wanted to pursue an education elsewhere, and she graduated in 1938. She taught in her first grade for several years, after which she stopped raising her family according to the customs of the time.
Kendall, who almost always wears heels and is known for her love of orchids, celebrated her 100th birthday with friends.th Name her for the Betty Kendall Ladyslipper Orchid Collection, Dr. Joe and Alice Lynnard Greenhouse.
She was a founding member of the Discovery Women’s Charitable Committee, the National Charitable Council, the John Emmens Scholarship Committee, and the Alumni Center Steering Committee, which planned the university’s new Alumni Center. She was the first female board member of her First Merchants Bank and was a member of many Muncie community clubs and organizations. Ms Kendall said she was a member of the Village’s first board of directors and later became a resident of Westminster, but not until she was in her 90s.
Always a proud cardinal and never sitting still, Ms. Kendall could be found at many reunion events, plays and concert performances over the years. She has long held her tickets for the basketball and football season until her 2020. Kendall also helped Ball State with several immersive learning projects.
she would have celebrated her 107th birthdayth 2023 Valentine’s Day birthday.
The Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, December 1, 2022 at 2:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church, 1400 W. Riverside Ave., Muncie. Commemorative donations may be made to The Betty Kendall Lady Slipper Orchid Species Collection Fund #908, c/o Ball State University, 2800 W. Bethel Ave., Muncie, IN 47304.
