Catherine Elizabeth Sarver Bowyer, 49, of Ripley, passed away Friday, July 3, 2009, at the Hubbard Hospice House in Charleston. She willingly conceded her courageous five-year struggle with ovarian cancer and is now at rest in heaven.

Cathy was born on December 26, 1959, to H.L. (Junior) and Mabel Sarver of Union, WV. She was an active 4-Her and avid horsewoman in her youth; Cathy continued these passions throughout her life by continuing to raise horses and by becoming an active 4-H leader. Her dear Grandmother instilled in her a love of the ocean, and one of the joys of her life was the annual family vacation to the Cherry Grove section of North Myrtle Beach.

Cathy graduated from Union High School in 1978 and West Virginia University in 1984 with a BS in Agriculture. She worked for the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, Regulatory and Environmental Affairs Division, for 22 years, ending her career as Assistant Director. Cathy was a member of a variety of professional organizations and enjoyed meeting with her colleagues from across the country.

Cathy loved life and serving her community. In addition to being a 4-H leader for many years, she was active in the Jackson County 4-H Leaders Association and a 4-H All Star. She was a member of the Cabin Creek Health System Board of Directors as well as the Central Counties Area Health Education Center Advisory Board. Cathy was also faithful to her church, First Presbyterian of Ripley, where she served as an Elder for many years.

In addition to her parents, Cathy is survived by her husband of 29 years, David, of Ripley; daughter Susan of Falls Church, VA; sisters Dr. Peggy (Marshall) Williams of Kirkersville, OH, and Joanne (Roger) Brooks of Blacksville; and several loving cousins, nieces, and nephews.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Jeffery Fowler, his staff, and HospiceCare for all their care and devotion during Cathy’s illness.

At Cathy’s request, the body will be cremated and a celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, July 11, at the First Presbyterian Church of Ripley. A time of visitation will begin at 12:30 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m. Her ashes will be interred on Saturday, July 18, at 1:00 p.m. at Green Hill Cemetery in Union, followed by a period of fellowship at the First Presbyterian Church of Union.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Cathy’s memory to the charity of your choice.

Condolences may be left in the Guestbook at http://www.caringbridge.org/wv/cathybwv.