Bettye Bailey at the Bailey Hall Celebration in 2014.
It is with sadness, gratitude, and deep admiration that we honor the life and legacy of Bettye Bailey, friend, donor, and namesake of Ralph and Bettye Bailey Hall, who peacefully passed away on January 10, 2026, at the age of 101. Bettye earned a bachelor’s degree in social sciences from the University of Pittsburgh and devoted 23 years of service as a trustee at Wilmington (Delaware) University. Alongside her husband, Ralph (a Mechanical Engineering graduate of Purdue University), Betty was a devoted supporter of Purdue Musical Organizations. Their enduring love of music and commitment to PMO left a lasting imprint on our community.
As a student at Purdue, Ralph and Bettye regularly attended PMO performances, a tradition they continued for decades as Indiana natives and as Ralph served the University in various leadership roles. Through these experiences, they formed meaningful connections with fellow PMO patrons and developed a shared belief in the transformative power of music. Recognizing PMO’s need for a larger, more permanent home, the Baileys felt called to help.
Through their vision and generosity, alongside the support of other dedicated individuals, PMO launched a successful campaign to build Ralph and Bettye Bailey Hall. Its dedication marked a pivotal moment in the organization’s history, enabling PMO to move from its former home in Elliott Hall of Music into a space designed specifically for its students and programs. The facility’s rehearsal spaces, student lounge, music library, and practice rooms provide more than functionality; they offer students a true home where they can grow as musicians, leaders, and lifelong friends. As a prominent campus landmark, Bailey Hall also elevates awareness of PMO’s role at Purdue and within the broader community.
Bettye especially cherished attending the Purdue Christmas Show and was able to enjoy the most recent performance from home this past December—a moment that held special meaning for all who knew her love for the music and the students.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Bailey family and pledge to honor Bettye and Ralph’s memory through music, community, and the continued growth made possible by their remarkable generosity and spirit.