Betty Jane 'B.J.' Dunbar

Betty Jane “B. J.” Dunbar, 77, passed away at her home on Red Lane in Thermopolis, Wyo., on February 3, 2020.

She was born on December 22, 1942, in Hillsdale, Mich., the daughter of Billie James and Donna (Fink) Houghtby.

She married John G. Dunbar on July 23, 1961, in Cambria, Mich. The couple moved to Wyoming in 1977, then to Thermopolis in 1990.

A faithful and active member of Eastern Star, she was initiated in Michigan on June 18, 1976. After moving to Wyoming, she was a member of Newcastle Chapter #30. After moving to Thermopolis, she became a member of Vesper Chapter #19 where she was serving as secretary at the time of her death. She was also a member of Harmony Chapter #53 in Cheyenne. Holding many offices, she served as Worthy Matron several times, Grand Chaplain in 1990 and Grand Representative to Kentucky in 1998. She attended Grand Chapter for many years and three General Grand Chapter sessions.

Her greatest memory of Eastern Star was proudly serving as her husband’s escort when he served as Worthy Grand Patron. Her dedication to John was admired by many.

She was a secretary for R&S Well Service and a librarian at Hot Springs County Library. She enjoyed reading, knitting and visiting with friends.

B. J. is survived by her brother, Phillip Houghtby; nieces; nephews; great-nieces; and great-nephews, all of Michigan.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 2004; and her parents.

Graveside services officiated by Eastern Star will be held at Monument Hill Cemetery on Friday, Oct. 2, at 1:30 p.m. Masks and social distancing will be encouraged.

A memorial has been established in B. J.’s name to the Wyoming Eastern Star Service Dog Project. Donations may be sent to: WY OES Service Dogs c/o Margie George, Grand Secretary, 3918 Snyder Avenue, Cheyenne, WY, 82001.