Martha "Marti" Elizabeth Gallegos Sowder

Martha (Marti) Elizabeth Gallegos Sowder, born on August 12, 1952, in San Antonio, Texas, passed away peacefully in August 2024, just days after celebrating her 50th wedding anniversary. Marti was the beloved daughter of Roberto Lozano Gallegos and Rebecca Dolores De La Garza Gallegos.

Marti's educational journey began at McKinley Elementary, continued through Hawthorn Middle School and Thomas Edison High School, and culminated with nursing studies at San Antonio College and Baptist Medical Center School of Nursing. She became a Registered Nurse in 1973 and worked with dedication in the Baptist Health System before moving into geriatric care, eventually serving as one of seven vice-presidents at a major Home Health company until her early retirement in 2000 due to multiple sclerosis.

On August 2, 1974, Marti married Sammy Sowder in San Antonio. They created a loving home together, raising five children. Marti's home was the heart of countless family gatherings, particularly her cherished Thanksgiving feasts and multifamily vacations to New Mexico and Colorado, where her joy was in sharing these moments with her loved ones.

Marti's life was further enriched when she reunited with her biological siblings, discovering three brothers through DNA analysis in 2016. These connections brought immense joy to her life, and she cherished the close relationships that followed.

Marti is preceded in death by her parents, Roberto and Rebecca Gallegos. She is survived by her devoted husband, Sammy Sowder; siblings Richard (Linda) Gallegos, Bill (Sherri) Batey, and Robby Ortiz; her five children Sandy (Brent) Miller, Bob (Sue) Sowder, Aaron (Michelle) Sowder, Rob (Jessica) Sowder, and Mark (Crystal) Sowder; 14 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Marti will be remembered for her deep love for her family, her unwavering dedication to her profession, and her joyful spirit that enriched the lives of all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held for Marti on Saturday, October 12th at 3:00pm at the Northside Community Church at 1407 West Ave, San Antonio, TX 78201