Sara Ann Mounger

Sara Ann Mounger, lovingly known as Sally, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 at Friendship Village in Kalamazoo.

Born the only child of Denver and Alfredo Barnes, Sally's childhood was enriched by summers spent with her grandparents and extended family in Pennsboro, West Virginia. She was a bright and determined student, graduating from Charleston High School at just 16 years old. She continued her education at Miami University of Ohio, where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in 1955, and later pursued a Master's Degree at Western Michigan University. In September 1954, she married the love of her life, Jack Mounger, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in devotion and respect.

Sally dedicated her career to education and the advancement of women. She worked at Kalamazoo College and later at Nazareth College and Davenport College in continuing education, where for more than 15 years she helped women from all walks of life expand their opportunities through education. Beyond her professional work, Sally was a passionate advocate for women's rights. She was honored as Woman of the Year in 1996 by Kalamazoo's Women's Festival and played an instrumental role in its creation through her work with the Community Planner's Roundtable. She was also an active member of the League of Women Voters and served as a mentor to countless women, inspiring them to pursue their educational and professional dreams.

Faith and fellowship were central to Sally's life. A longtime member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, she served as an elder and found deep purpose in service. She also loved traveling, freelance writing, and playing games-whether sharpening her wit in Scrabble or gathering friends for a good round of bridge. At the heart of it all, Sally treasured her family and friendships, always cherishing the connections she nurtured throughout her life.

Sally and Jack were blessed with two children, Scott (Kim) Mounger and John (Debbie) Mounger, and she was immensely proud of her grandchildren: Jacob (Asia) Mounger, Joseph (Elyse) Mounger, Sara (Gabe) Simmons, and step-grandchildren Amy Maddox and Chris (Alice) Maddox. Her joy only grew with the arrival of her great-grandchildren: Britain, Jackson, Charles, Robert, and Emma.

In 1975, Sally and Jack made Kalamazoo their home after -moving from Kettering, Ohio. In her later years, she found comfort and community at Friendship Village, where she spent her final chapter surrounded by care and companionship.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Friendship Village, Hospice, and to Sally's many friends-especially Darlene Mosher-for their love and support.

A memorial service will be officiated by Jerry & Janet Duggins of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Portage, Michigan on a date to still be determined.

Sally's life was a beautiful balance of career, service, and family. She was a role model to women in every season of life-whether as mothers, students, professionals, or grandmothers. She will be remembered as a woman of grace, faith, and vision, who uplifted and empowered others to achieve their goals.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Sally's guestbook and/or share a memory with her family.

The Mounger family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002. 269-344-5600