Bette Nash, the world’s longest-serving flight attendant and parishioner of Sacred Heart Church in Manassas, has died at age 88. She had been diagnosed recently with breast cancer.
The oldest of three sisters, Nash was born Dec. 31, 1935, and grew up just outside Atlantic City, N.J. After working as a secretary, Nash took a job as a flight attendant with Eastern Airlines in 1957 at age 21. She began working the shuttle flight between Boston and Washington, where she lived, allowing her to stay at home every night. She would continue to fly that route for nearly 70 years, even after the route was acquired by American Airlines.
Over the course of her career, Nash witnessed notable changes in aviation, particularly after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in 2001. She was awarded the Guinness World Record title for longest-serving flight attendant in 2022. Nash never retired from her position.
Following her death, her employer, American Airlines, released a statement on X, formerly Twitter: “Bette inspired generations of flight attendants. Fly high, Bette.”
Nash is survived by her son, Christian.
A viewing will be held 3-6 p.m. June 9 at Mountcastle Church Life Celebration Home, 4143 Dale Blvd., Dale City. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at Sacred Heart Church 11 a.m. June 10.
