Gertrude J. Owens

Gertrude Bolden Owens was born on November 6, 1930, in Clarksville, Travis County, Austin, Texas. She was the fourth of six children born to Richard and Gertrude Bolden. Raised in a close-knit family and community, she learned the values of faith, perseverance, education, and service that would guide her throughout her life and leave a lasting impact on all who knew her.

Gertrude attended Austin Public Schools and graduated from Anderson High School in 1949. She later pursued higher education at Our Lady of the Lake University, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. At a time when opportunities for African American educators were limited, Gertrude became one of the pioneering Black educators in her district, helping to break barriers and pave the way for future generations of teachers and students.

For more than 30 years, Gertrude dedicated herself to educating and inspiring young people in the Edgewood Independent School District in San Antonio, Texas. Known for her compassion, wisdom, professionalism, and unwavering belief in the potential of every child, she made a profound difference in the lives of countless students and families. Her commitment to educational excellence earned her numerous awards and recognitions throughout her distinguished career.

She was honored by Edgewood Independent School District with a Certificate of Recognition and a Teacher Appreciation Week Award for her outstanding service to youth. During the 1993-1994 school year, she received a Certificate of Achievement for her exceptional efforts in improving student performance and increasing TAAS scores at Gus Garcia Jr.

High School. Upon her retirement on May 27, 1995, she was recognized for 24 years of dedicated service at Gus Garcia Junior High School. Though her accomplishments were many, Gertrude considered the success and growth of her students to be her greatest reward.

Beyond her professional achievements, Gertrude possessed a remarkable gift for music. An accomplished pianist and gifted musician, she faithfully shared her talents throughout her life, bringing joy, comfort, and inspiration to others through her music. She served her church devotedly by accompanying choirs, supporting worship services, and participating in numerous ministries. Whether seated at a piano or serving her congregation, she used her gifts to glorify God and uplift those around her.

On October 6, 1950, Gertrude married the love of her life, SMSgt. Christopher L. Owens. Together they built a loving home founded on faith, devotion, and family. Their marriage was blessed with three children, five grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who brought immeasurable joy to her life.
Gertrude was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Christopher L. Owens; her daughter, Donna Lynn Owens; her parents, Richard and Gertrude Bolden; her brothers, Frank, Willie, Richard, and Steve Bolden; and her sister, Jerry Bolden.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Pamela Owens and Darrell Owens (Martha); her grandchildren, Chris, Stephen, Julie (Uche), and Naomi Owens of San Antonio, Texas, and Rhonda O’Neal of Dallas, Texas; her great-grandchildren, Da Raja and Darian Medlock of Dallas, Texas, Ziara and Zora of San Antonio, Texas; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, former students, colleagues, church family, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love, wisdom, guidance, and unwavering faith.
Gertrude’s legacy is one of faith, excellence, education, music, and service. A trailblazing educator, respected mentor, award-winning teacher, gifted pianist, devoted wife and mother, loving grandmother, and faithful servant of God, she dedicated her life to uplifting others. Through the students she inspired, the music she shared, the family she cherished, and the lives she touched, her influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will forever remain a source of strength, inspiration, and love.