Jean Gloria McCurdy Bonsall was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on February 25, 1926, to Sara Ella and Joseph Griffiths McCurdy. She graduated from Upper Darby High School in 1944, attended Temple University for two years, and graduated from Pennsylvania State College in 1948. Jean married William Alfred Bonsall in 1946, and the couple settled in Morgantown in 1949, where they established a home, raised three children and developed a love for the state of West Virginia.
Jean was interested in good government, being active in organizations such as the League of Women Voters. She volunteered with organizations concentrating on child development and mental health, such as Boy and Girl Scouts, 4-H, PTA, and Vacation Bible School. She was executive secretary of the Mental Health Association of Monongalia County and was the first coordinator of their Friendship Room.
In 1963, Jean earned a Master of Science Degree in Child Psychology. Two years later, Jean began work as a Counselor Supervisor at The Youth Development Center in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania where she retired in 1978 with recognition for distinguished service.
For the next twenty-two years, Jean developed Paige Creations, a photography company specializing in scenic views of West Virginia with the goal of enhancing the image of the state.
She is survived by her children, Barbara Bonsall Wood, Janet Paige Bonsall Humphrey, Paul Donald Bonsall, as well as seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
A graveside committal service will take place at Arlington Cemetery, 2900 State Rd, Drexel Hill, PA 19026 (Upper Darby), at 11:00AM on Friday, June 20, 2025. Jean will rest with her husband, Bill, and some of her ashes will be sprinkled on the graves of loved ones nearby.
In lieu of flowers, please contribute to Meals on Wheels, 3375 University Ave, Morgantown, WV 26505, or to the West Virginia University College of Physical Activity and Sports Science at https://give.wvu.edu/give/436127/#!/donation/checkout
Hastings Funeral Home has been entrusted with cremation arrangements.
Stories of remembrance and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com.
Friday, June 20, 2025
Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Arlington Cemetery
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