Zinita P. Fowler

Known to the children of Texas as Mrs. Flower, Zinita Fowler lived her life as a teacher, writer, poet, children's librarian, mother and grandmother. Zinita is well-known statewide as a master storyteller and is a published author of professional journals, magazines, poems, plays and books. Her love of writing and teaching prompted the development of "The Crossroads", a literary journal where new writers could publish and be recognized for their work. Professional memberships include Tejas Storytelling Association and the Poetry Society of Texas. She won the Siddie Joe Johnson Award in 1982 for excellence as a children's librarian and is a life member of the Carrollton-Farmers Branch PTA. Her early education was completed at ETSU, now A&M Commerce, where she earned both Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees. Always seeking the best from herself, Zinita went back to school and earned a second Master's Degree in Library Science at the University of North Texas.

The daughter of Dr. L.D. and Viola Parsons of Commerce, Texas, Zinita never swayed from their guiding principles. Her viewpoints have been published several times in the Dallas Morning News and other area newspapers. Never backing away from a new challenge, Fowler, who grew up in the First United Methodist Church in Commerce, became the Children's Librarian at Akiba Academy in Dallas.

Her fond memories and the relationships with the faculty and staff at Akiba were a comfort to her in retirement. The love of her friends and neighbors in Carrollton and the care she has received at Lindan Park in Richardson have made the transition from this world to the next a peaceful passing.

Zinita left to be with her beloved and equally amazing sister, Mickey Huffstutler, on Friday evening, Sept. 3rd. Born on June 7, 1920, she had recently celebrated her 90th birthday with her children. They will miss the love, humor, unconditional support and smiling face of their one and only "Mamy".

Zinita is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Russell and Darla Fowler of Buda, Texas and granddaughters Bianca and Serenity; son, Jack Fowler of Gainsville, Texas ; daughter and son-in-law, Ann and Tom Kizer of Garland, Texas; granddaughter, Kari Nodeland and her husband Brian Nodeland.

Memorial services will be conducted at Jones Walker & Son Chapel on Saturday, September 11, 2010 at 3:00 P.M.