Jean Bowen McNeil Humphreys, of Morgantown, passed away Dec. 16, 2019, after a heroic battle with Parkinson’s disease.
She was born in Whiting, Ind., Sept. 14, 1925, the daughter of Dr. C. P. and Grace Bowen McNeil. She attended UWM Madison and was a member of the 1st graduating class in Physical Therapy, with a specialization in burn therapy. Soon after graduation, she met the love of her life, Richard, and enjoyed 65 years of marriage. After raising her family, Jean entered WVU to earn both a masters and AbD in Behavioral Disorders and Gifted Children, serving as the Itinerant Special Education teacher for the Preston County Schools for 30 years. During that time she touched the lives of many students, guiding them to successful and fulfilling careers. Her passion for learning extended beyond the classroom as a life member of the Girl Scouts of America, supporter of the American Indian Foundation, Special Olympics and many more groups.
In addition to her love for education, Jean was an accomplished musician and active member of the First Presbyterian Church, singing in the choir and performing in the bell choir. She also served as an elder, deacon and Sunday school teacher. Jean’s philanthropy facilitated the completion of the pipe organ in the First Presbyterian Church as well as acquiring the final octaves for the bell choir. As a patron of the arts, Jean and Richard shared many passions, supporting the Pittsburgh Symphony and as members of the WVU Choral Union for more than 20 years.
Jean is survived by her loving children and seven grandchildren: Kathleen P. Humphreys Byers (Dr. John, Jay, Jennifer), Susan P. Humphreys Robison (Charlie, Holly), Llewellyn B. Humphreys (Sally, Bowen, Drake), Kevin Neil Humphreys, Melinda Humphreys Knotts (Steve, Chelsea, Bradley); and five great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard William Humphreys, youngest son, Christopher William, and two brothers.
A memorial service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church in Morgantown, at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11. At her request, Jean generously donated her body to the WVU Human Gift Registry.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made in her memory to WVUF School of Music (Fund #2V169) mailED to WVU Foundation, 1 Water Front Place, 7th Floor, Morgantown, WV 26501-1650 or Give.WVU.edu,
