Sara Kay Fomby Bowen

Sara Kay Fomby Bowen passed away on September 12th, 2023, with both of her daughters at her side after a lengthy battle with various illnesses. Her resilience to her multiple health issues is a reflection of her strength and spirit while maintaining care and kindness to everyone around her. Sara's various caregivers often commented on her sweet personality and what a pleasure it was to assist her.
Born at home on the family farm outside of Hamlin, Texas on October 16th, 1939, to Ida Mae (Dixon) and Bert Fomby, Sara was an only child after the early death of her sister, Wanda. Sara is survived by her husband, Charles Bowen; her two daughters, Katherine Johnston and Teresa Rose; her son-in-law, Tim Johnston; and her four grandchildren, Burton Johnston, Aubrey Johnston, Mackenzie Rose Forbes and Paris Rose; her step-daughter, Barbara Cross, and step-grandsons, Nicholas Cross and Kyle Cross. She is also survived by her uncle James Fomby.
Sara grew up on the family farm of which she had many happy memories. Although an only child, she was never lonely because there were always chickens, goats, cows and a dog to play with. She was a gifted musician and was awarded a scholarship to attend the University of Texas at El Paso where she earned her Bachelor and Master degrees in Music and Education. She married Henry Mac (Mac) Fullerton of Abilene, Texas who was pursuing a Doctorate in Education. Sara began her career teaching music in El Paso at an elementary school in one of the poorest areas of El Paso. This was the start of a career supporting the needs of underserved or special needs children. It was also during this time that their two daughters were born – Katherine Margaret (1963) and Teresa Marie (1965).
Sara continued teaching when the family moved to Burkburnett, Texas in 1969, primarily the 3rd grade, until she moved to Denton, Texas in 1983 after her daughters had graduated high school. That is when she met and married Charles Bowen in October 1984.
During this time, she continued her education, receiving Masters in Psychology and Education which would lead her to working as a Diagnostician for Lewisville Public Schools for the remainder of her career, retiring in 2005. Throughout her career, Sara was a champion for the children who were faced with obstacles and needed additional assistance. Whether immigrant children working to learn a new language and culture or children with mental or physical disabilities, Sara was a steadfast advocate and champion.
As a beloved mother, she was a best friend and particularly gifted at understanding and providing the unique needs of her children and grandchildren. She genuinely understood and valued the various characteristics that made each special. As a cherished wife, she was committed to the happiness of her husband, Charles, every day for almost 39 years.
Sara led a life selflessly taking care of others and profoundly impacting so many lives. She will be immensely missed.
Services will be held at Mulkey-Mason Funeral Home in Lewisville, Texas. Viewing will be at 10:00a.m. and Memorial Service at 11:00. Interment will be at the Fairview Cemetery, Jones County, Texas at 4:00p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in her honor to: Denton Humane Society, Alzheimer's Association or Denton Special Olympics.