Sarah Jane Fishback

Doctor Sarah "Jane" Fishback passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, in Manhattan, Kansas, at the age of 83. An Army spouse, professor, mentor, and champion of the military community, her life was defined by curiosity, learning, and resilience.

Jane was born on November 29, 1942, in Saltville, Virginia, to Anne Crawford Armstrong and Major George John Armstrong. In 1964, she received a degree from Mary Washington College. In 1968, she married David Madsen Fishback, a US Army officer, and continued to move around the world with the military. She often expressed her appreciation for having lived in various locations, characterizing the world as her home.

In 1991, Jane moved with her three daughters to Manhattan, KS, where she earned an M.S. in Adult and Continuing Education from Kansas State University, followed by a Ph.D. in 1997. A respected professor at KSU, specializing in adult learning and leadership development, Jane was known for her dedication to students and fervent mentoring of doctoral candidates. Jane retired as Professor Emeritus of Adult Leadership at age 80.

Jane loved mysteries, plants, print newspapers, horror movies, the Smithsonian Channel, art, nature, and especially animals. She will be fondly remembered for her quick wit, foul mouth, and incomparable ability to hold court.

Jane is survived by her sister Lisa King, and her daughters Allison, Christina, and Joanna Fishback. She is also survived by Joanna's husband, Jordan Wingate, and their son, David Fishback Wingate. She leaves behind her six rescue cats: Moo, George, Grace, Colby, Oscar, and Minka.

She will be laid to rest beside her husband, Col David Madsen Fishback, who precedes her in death, at Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined.

Donations in her honor can be made to Cattails Feline Society in Manhattan, KS. Donations can be sent to Cattails, 5508 Cliffside Drive, Manhattan, KS 66503, or sent online at Cattails Feline Society.