By Janet Adamy
Daily Staff Reporter
The tragic death of Associate Rackham Dean and theatre Prof. Betty Jean Jones was celebrated last night in two acts by 300 people who gathered to share their memories.
Faculty, students and friends choked through tears in Rackham Amphitheatre to tell stories about Jones, who was killed Jan. 9 in the crash of Comair Flight 3272.
Rackham Dean Nancy Cantor said Jones will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, beauty and dignity.
"She was the person I most wanted my 11-year-old daughter to be like, and she had already captured the heart of that girl," Cantor said.
The memorial, titled "A Celebration of the Life of Betty Jean Jones in Two Acts," began Act One with music from the University Gospel Chorale and was followed by speeches from faculty members and students.
"I've never met anyone less likely to hide her light under a bushel," said David Artis, Jones' assistant.
The speakers read poetry by John Keats, William Cullen Bryant and Maya Angelou. Vice Provost for Academic and Multicultural Affairs Lester Monts played a recording of traditional African music at the end of his speech.
Interim University President Homer Neal said that although Jones' time at the University was brief, her impact will be remembered for years to come.
"Although Betty Jean was only with us for a couple of years, she quickly endeared herself to students, faculty and those that she interacted with at the University," Neal said.
"I can think of no greater tribute we can pay to her than to emulate her warmth and caring for others," he said.
Act Two, a reception featuring food, costumes and photographs from "Tooth of Crime," the only play Jones directed at the University, was held in the Trueblood Theater in the Frieze Building, where it was performed last year.
Theatre Prof. Eric Fredricksen said he initially feared the atmosphere of the service might be stuffy, but was pleased it turned out to be comfortable.
"I think (the speakers) wrote what they felt and said it," Fredricksen said. "They all seemed really genuine."
Music senior Heidi Brokez said she felt the service was an appropriate way to remember Jones.
"There just aren't words to describe how wonderful she is," Brokez said. "The words that were spoken tonight were of the caliber for the women she is."
The Department of Theatre and Drama plans to name its newly refurbished graduate seminar room after Jones. The department is also setting up a scholarship in Jones' name, which will be awarded this spring.
JOHN KRAFT/Daily
The University Gospel Chorale performs during Act One of "A Celebration of the LIfe of Betty Jean Jones." Jones, a Rackham dean and theatre professor, was killed in the crash of Comair Flight 3272.