[NFBF-L] The Passing of Beth Bowen Dyal

[Kaye Baker]

It is with great sadness and a profound sense of loss that the NFB of
Florida Greater Jacksonville Chapter announces the passing of Elizabeth
(Beth) Bowen Dyal on October 4, 2021 at the age of 81. 

 

Beth played a pivotal role in the formation and growth of the National
Federation of the Blind of Florida, the Federations 45th Affiliate, founded
on November 14th, 1970 as the Florida Association of the Blind. She and her
husband Jim took on leadership roles, (including those of President of the
Jacksonville Chapter), one of the Affiliates four charter chapters. Beth
served as an invaluable member and leader not only in Florida but on a
national level as well.

 

Active in local, State and National politics, she was a strong and steady
voice championing those issues that affected the blind. Beth, along with her
late husband Jim Bowen, was instrumental in passing legislation to help the
blind participate more on an equal footing with the fully sighted.

 

She mentored and advocated on behalf of blind individuals who had issues in
dealing with various rehabilitation agencies, the Social Security
Administration and private employers. Beth also instilled in the people she
mentored self-reliance and taught her mentees how to advocate for
themselves.

 

Beth lived a full and active life and never let her lack of eyesight keep
her from accomplishing her goals. She raised four children, was active in
her church, was well known in local and State politics, supported women's
concerns, blindness issues and was employed full-time as a medical
transcriptionist. 

 

Beth leaves behind a loving family, as well as a host of friends and
colleagues, both inside and outside of the Federation to treasure many fond
memories of her and all of her wonderful accomplishments.

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