Alice Bellis Thornton 1908-2002

THORNTON BELLIS DAVIS

Posted By: Connie Swearingen (email)
Date: 12/11/2009 at 01:05:56

26 June 2002

Alice was born October 23, 1908 in Castana, Iowa and died June 16, 2002 in Berryville, Arkansas. She was the daughter of Joseph and Ida Bellis of Castana, who preceded her in death. Granddaughter of James Davis “Uncle Jim” Bellis, Castana, Monona County, et al who died in 1946 at the age of 100.

The family moved to Sioux City when Alice was 17, where she became a copywriter for Davidson Bros. Co. before going to San Diego, California.

In the 1930’s she edited and published the poetry magazine, “Beat of Wings”, and was a member of the Joyous Crafters and Chaparral Poetry Societies.

During WWII she was an interviewer for the USES.

Alice lived 31 years in Los Angeles (1952-1983) where she was Founder-Director of Friends Finders Institute, a social, recreational counseling service for unmarried adults for 23 years (1954-1977). She was a popular lecturer on interpsersonal relationships at Service Clubs and Churches. Author of the book “How Come You’re Not Married”?

Alice and her sister, Marjorie Bellis Richmond, who survived her retired to Berryville, Arkansas in 1983.

A graveside service will be held at 11 A.M. on June 29 in Moreland Cemetery.