The Obituary of Bettye Jean Tinort

Bettye J. Tinort was born in Newton, Mississippi, on October 2, 1938, to Willie Lee Chapman. Affectionately known as “Sister Bettye” by her church family and “Bettye Jean” by her relatives. She lived a life devoted to faith, family, and service. From an early age, she shared a tender bond with her maternal grandmother, Bettye Harper. She embraced her grandmother’s faith in God, drawing strength and comfort from that cherished spiritual connection.

Bettye attended Newton High School in Newton, Mississippi. As a young woman, she married Rance Tinort of Newton, Mississippi, who preceded her in death. She was the loving mother of three children: Joey, Beverly (Sekai), and Esther. Seeking new opportunities for herself and her children, she moved to New York City, where her Aunt Ethel (Queen Esther) helped her find employment. Guided by prayer, she sought a church home and found it at St. Luke Fire Baptized Holiness Church. From her first visit, she knew she belonged. She remained a devoted member from 1964 until her passing. She served as a Sunday School and Vacation Bible School Teacher, usher, ordained deaconess, ordained minister, district evangelist, and assistant pastor. She found joy in supporting the pastors and served as Interim Pastor.

Her desire to study God’s Word led her to pursue biblical studies at Manhattan Bible Institute, including courses in General Bible, Homiletics, and Eschatology. While raising three children, Bettye pursued her education with determination -- studying after work and on Saturdays. She reserved Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays for church worship. Her service to God remained at the heart of all she did. After earning her high school diploma in New York City, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from College of New Rochelle and a Master of Science in Special Education from Adelphi University. Her commitment to learning strengthened her desire to encourage young people and adults alike to pursue their goals. She reminded those she met to put God first and trust Him to open doors.

Bettye Tinort earned her teaching license and served in the New York City public schools for several years as an Elementary school teacher. Her work reflected her desire to help others grow. 

Minister Tinort found great joy in reaching others by telephone: checking on their well- being, offering encouragement, and praying with them. Through referrals, she formed lasting prayer connections with people she never met in person. Those who knew her will lovingly remember her songs, poems, Bible verses, and heartfelt invitations to read God’s Word. Whenever someone welcomed the gift of a Bible, she gladly purchased and mailed one. For several years, she led a weekly Bible study, encouraging participants to “Read Through the Bible in a Year” and celebrating with those who reached that goal. She led her final class on Sunday, October 18, 2026.

Sister Bettye held all close to her heart: relatives, church members, Bible study students, friends, neighbors, and professional colleagues. She remembered not only their names, but the names of their children. Each morning at 8:00 a.m., she began praying for them, calling them by name, lifting them up before the Lord. Her love was expressed in these faithful prayers and tender acts of remembrance.

Bettye Jean deeply cherished her Chapman family. She looked forward to family reunions each year (wherever they were held), finding joy in gathering with her relatives. She treasured these connections and lovingly reminded younger family members of their lineage, helping them understand the roots that bound them together.

“Sister Bettye” welcomed everyone to know Jesus, read His Word, and develop a personal relationship with God. She encouraged all to live “Rapture Ready” -- prepared to meet their Maker and receive everlasting life in Heaven. She shared this with all at every opportunity. Her mission was simple and heartfelt: to love God and live that love through reading and meditating on His Word.

On October 29, 2026, at 8:19 p.m., Bettye departed this life peaceably, at home and with family.

Bettye was preceded in death by her beloved son, Joey Lynn Tinort. She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Sekai Adebanke, and Esther M. Tinort of High Point, North Carolina, her treasured grandchildren, Namel Lee Davis, Niara Adebanke, and Micah Adebanke. Bettye shared a home with Esther and lovingly cared for her since 2020. During the last three years of Bettye’s life, Niara joined them in their home and shared in her care. Bettye received exceptional care, comfort, companionship, and loving support. The love Bettye poured into her home remains a precious part of their lives.

Among Bettye’s cherished companions was the beloved family pet, Mr. Romeo “Tinort”. He remained by her side to the end.

Bettye’s family extended far beyond the bonds of blood. Those she loved and embraced as her own held a place in her heart that needed no family tree to make it real. They, too, are part of her enduring legacy of love. As we honor our beloved mother, we carry forward the faith she lived, the kindness she shared, and the love that made them know they belonged.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, November 7, 2026 12:00pm World Victory Church 1414 Cliffwood Drive Greensboro, North arolina. Visitation 11:00am.