Bethany Jill Hess

Mrs. Bethany Jill Hess, 48, passed away on December 9 2024. The daughter of Melvin Clare Hess and Sue Ellen Connell, Jill was born and raised in Fairmont and was grounded in her Appalachian roots. Full of an ambitious desire to help others, Jill pursued a bachelor’s degree in Human Services at Fairmont State University and then a master’s degree in counseling at WVU, ultimately leading her to become a certified counselor and a twenty year career in accessibility services at WVU where her bright light and relentless advocacy was appreciated by students and colleagues alike. She dedicated her career to seeing people for who they are and supporting them in their academic success.

Jill spent as much time as possible enjoying nature - she knew the best swimming holes and would drive friends there on any summer day. She held an intense appreciation for lovely things - musical instruments, antique textiles, trails of knowledge, and any kind of art. Jill was also a well of curiosity; diving deep into researching new topics to resurface hours later with a greater understanding of the world around her and how she fit into it. Her knack for finding fossils was unmatched and would happily spend all day in a kayak fishing. The Tygart Valley River watershed held a special place in her heart and her final resting place will overlook it.

Preceded in death by her parents, Jill leaves behind her spouse of 18 years, Roger Glass; their troupe of beloved cats BlueBear, Buckthorne, and Patrick; and many, many loving friends. Bringing wonderful people together was something Jill found great joy in. We encourage those who cared for her to join her family in celebrating her beautiful life at services held on Friday December 20th at Jenkins Funeral Home in Morgantown, with visitation from 12:00-2:00 and a service at 2:00. Burial will follow at Bluemont Cemetery in Grafton.