Elizabeth Jane Skeens

Elizabeth Jane Skeens, fondly known as Betty, passed away on August 16, 2025, at Valley Healthcare in Chilhowie, Virginia. She was born on April 13, 1946, in Washington County, Virginia, where she lived a fulfilling life as a cherished member of her community.

Betty dedicated her professional talents to journalism, serving as a news reporter with the Harrisonburg Daily News Record and various newspaper companies in Ashland, Kentucky; Parkersburg, West Virginia; and Abingdon, Virginia. Her passion for storytelling and commitment to the truth resonated through her work, leaving a lasting impact on the communities she covered.

A graduate of Patrick Henry High School, Betty furthered her education at Emory & Henry College, where she earned a degree in English. She went on to achieve a Master’s degree in Journalism from the University of Alabama, a testament to her dedication to her craft. Throughout her life, she remained a lifelong resident of Washington County, Virginia, nurturing the friendships that began in her childhood and carrying those bonds throughout her journey.

Betty had a quiet and introspective personality, often finding solace in music and literature. She delighted in playing classical pieces on the piano and strumming tunes from the 50s and 60s on her guitar. Her love for music extended to singing in the choir at Emory & Henry College Memorial Chapel, where she shared her passion with others. An avid reader, Betty always had a book in hand, immersing herself in stories that would ignite her imagination. Betty loved all animals but was most fond of cats, her most recent fur babies were Blue Bell and Herman.

She is remembered lovingly by her family, including her sister, Barbara Kirkpatrick and her husband, Wayne; her niece, Leighanne Wilson and her husband, Fred; her nephew, Craig Skeens; and her great-niece, Savannah Wilson.

Friends and family are invited to honor Betty's life with a Celebration of Life service on August 30, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Emory and Henry Memorial Chapel, located at 30450 Armbrister Drive, Emory, Virginia with Rev. Sharon Wright officiating. The burial will be private at Holston Conference.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Emory & Henry Fund designated for scholarships in memory of Betty Skeens, The Office of Philanthropy and Engagement, Emory & Henry, PO Box 950, Emory, VA 24327

Betty’s gentle spirit, unwavering love for music, and the connections she nurtured throughout her life will forever resonate with those who knew and loved her.