Johnny Ted “JT” Fowler

In Loving Memory of Johnny Ted “JT” Fowler

December 24, 1951 – November 11, 2026

Johnny Ted Fowler, affectionately known as “JT,” was born on December 24, 1951, in Big Spring, Texas. He passed away on November 11, 2026, at the age of 74, following a lengthy and courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

JT was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Hershel and Ernestine Fowler; his uncles, Ted Fowler, Rufus Fowler, and Wallace Fowler; and his aunt, Qyma Fowler.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy Fowler; his daughters, Christy Fowler Scoggins (Billy) and Brandy Fowler (Eric) ; his stepson, Corey Wilcox (Jessica); his grandchildren, Cody Scoggins and Heather Nelle; and his great-grandson, Owen Nelle. He also leaves behind his cherished cousins, Sidney, Janice, Dietra, and Joe, along with numerous extended family members from the Fowler, Mann, Climer, and Dodson families.

JT was a man devoted to serving others as a family man, as a military medic, and as a programmer for the Veterans Administration. He often said he “in no way deserved nor earned” the many blessings he received during his life. He always singled out his daughters, Christy and Brandy, as two of his greatest blessings.

A Bulldog at Heart, Forever Coahoma was the core of his soul. Football, West Texas "do the right thing" philosophy, oil field hard work ethics and perseverance in the face of sand and wind shaped him into the father and friend he became.

Although JT’s life took him many places, his heart always remained in Coahoma, Texas. He was a lifelong Bulldog, and some of his happiest memories were rooted in the community, friendships, and experiences of his youth.

In his own words, JT was “watched over” by the people of Coahoma, especially Joan Kinder and Mama Pherigo. He was “worried over” by his teachers, especially Mrs. Cramer, Mrs. Renfro, Mrs. Garrett, Mr. Lundy, Mr. Wynn, and Mrs. Parrish. And he was “looked out for" by a huge number of the people he was around.” Once connected to people who cared about him, JT remained grateful until his last breath for the love they shared with him.

A Lifetime of Service to Others

From 1970 to 1974, he proudly served in the United States Air Force as a medic. He served In Vietnam Nam, and served bravely despite combat conditions. His commitment to service continued through his involvement in the Texas State Guard and his work as a Deputy Constable in Travis County, Texas. JT also worked for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), where he retired as a database administrator and computer programmer. He retired from the VA with one of his programs still being used daily.

His desire to guide and mentor others extended into his church and community. JT volunteered as a Royal Ambassadors (RA) leader in the Baptist church and as a Boy Scout troop leader. He continued to find ways to teach and encourage others even as ALS limited his physical strength.

JT loved Cherry Pepsi, beef ribs, the Packers and guns. He was a devoted survivalist, and made sure his loved ones were prepared and would be ok if the worst happened. He also, once his beard turned white, loved playing Santa each year for various groups. Absolutely nothing made him happier than bringing a smile to a child's lips or a laugh to someone who was stressed.

With Heartfelt Gratitude

JT’s family is grateful to his many caregivers, Gentiva Hospice, the Dallas VA ALS team, and the staff at AVIR in Graham, Texas, who cared for him in his final days. The family extends special thanks to LeAnna Sayles, JJ Wright, Belinda Suttles, and Jermaine Cohen for the kindness and comfort they gave him. To all the kind people who also made JT's life easier in later years, thank you.

In the words of JT , "Everyday is a holiday, Everyday is a feast."

Once a Bulldog, always a Bulldog.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 3, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Dallas–Fort Worth National Cemetery.

Instead of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The ALS Association.

For service information, please contact Baum-Carlock-Bumgardner Funeral Home at 940-325-4422.