Teresa Bowen Obituary (1949 - 2004)

AUGUSTA - Teresa Ambrose Bowen, 54, died peacefully at home with her husband and son by her side on Thursday, May 20, 2004. She was born in Bangor on July 12, 1949, the daughter of Edwin and Mary (Wahl) Ambrose. Teresa was a graduate of John Bapst High School, class of 1967, and of the University of Maine at Farmington, class of 1971. Directly upon graduation, she became an elementary school teacher in the Waterville school system, where she continued to teach for 33 years until her recent illness. She married her husband, Darrell Bowen, on June 29, 1974, and would have celebrated their 30th anniversary this year. Their beloved son, Benjamin James Bowen, was born Aug. 16, 1979. Terry was the ultimate giver who loved sharing herself and her talents with her family and friends. She loved teaching children and shared her expertise with younger, less-experienced teachers. She especially loved reading to young children. 'Brer Rabbit' was a favorite story character, and she will be remembered by many of her students for the way she brought his character and many other favorite story characters to life. Terry was a very skilled basket maker. Her beautiful handcrafted baskets were given as gifts to friends and family. She was proud of her talents as a baker. Her brownies and cakes were given generously to so many people on so many occasions. She could always remember which recipients liked their brownies with or without nuts. Terry was a fun person. She kept her wonderful sense of humor to the end. Even as she courageously battled cancer, she entertained her friends with funny anecdotes. She was an inveterate shopper, always looking for good bargains. She dreamed of going to Foxwoods just one more time with her friends. Most of all, Terry loved her family and always made it a priority. She was an exceptionally devoted and loving wife, mother, daughter, sister and aunt. Terry was predeceased by her mother, Mary Ambrose. She is survived by her husband, Darrell, and their son, Benjamin; her father, Edwin Ambrose; her brothers, Richard, Michael and John; her mother-in-law, Marjorie; her sister-in-law, Linda; brother-in-law Tom; and by many aunts and uncles and nieces and nephews. A memorial celebration of Terry's life will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday at South Parish Congregational Church, Church Street, Augusta, with the Rev. Bruce Forbes officiating. Burial will be held at Morrill Village Cemetery, at the convenience of the family. For those who wish, donations in Terry's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1 Main St., Suite 300, Topsham 04086. Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton & Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St., Augusta.