Pharis Duane Fowler, 93, of Spring, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on December 22, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife of 68 years, Betty, and their children. He was born on February 25, 1931, in Mendota, Missouri, to Pearley and Fern (Abbott) Fowler.
Pharis was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ferol Fowler, and his son-in-law, William Bruce, Jr. He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty (Hamilton) Fowler; six children: Cindy Bruce (Lucerne, MO), Shellie Laird (Maypearl, TX), Terri (Mike) McGhee (Huntsville, TX), Kenny Fowler (Spring, TX), Angie (Steve) Fleshman (Raymore, MO), and Julie (Keith) Hart (Spring, TX); 15 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild, and one more on the way.
Pharis attended Northeast Missouri State Teachers College (now Truman State University) in Kirksville, Missouri. He served his country in the U.S. Navy as a pharmacist’s mate aboard the USS Edisto (AGB-2) from 1950 to 1954.
In 1956, Pharis married Betty, and together they began their family and embarked on a career that would take them to several states across the Midwest and South. He worked for General Motors Acceptance Corporation (GMAC), where he earned a reputation for his meticulous work ethic. After retiring in 1991, Pharis enjoyed many years of travel, boating, and camping, particularly at Lake Thunderhead in Unionville, Missouri, where he and Betty built a home. He was an avid traveler and loved camping and boating, spending countless hours teaching his kids and others to waterski.
Pharis was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ. After retirement, he served as a deacon at the church in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. His passion for spreading the Gospel led him to become deeply involved in the World Bible School, sharing the word of God with people in many countries.
A graveside service will be held at a later date in Unionville, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to Devotion Hospice of Conroe, Texas, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, a cause close to Pharis’ heart.
Pharis will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his faith, and his generous spirit. His love of life and commitment to others left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
