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Sarah Ruth Flynn of Decatur Georgia, was and shall remain a force of nature, coalesced into a corporal body and presented to the world on October 19th, 1956. She shed her mortality at 6:46 pm October 11th, 2023. (Birthdays are unremarkable to immortal beings)
Among those left in her wake include: Jeffrey M Nealer, her partner of 26 years, brother Peter Flynn and his wife Amy, favorite nephew and niece Wesley and Melanie. She survived her father Paul L Flynn, of Kennet Square PA, by a few years. Also, Sarah was the Alpha Female and survivor of the domestic feline “Bear” clan: Mamma Kitty, Tiger, Snowball, Lil Bear, Big Bear, Lil Ruthie and The Runt.
Sarah’s talents were distributed wide and deep. Equestrian experience: exercising racehorses, competition events, dressage and fox hunting, Music: flute, piccolo, penny whistle and playing with the Seed & Feed Marching Abominable, Visual Arts: painting, drawing, mixed media and could make boxes to fit anything. Math and Physics: double B.S. Physics & Mathematics (1978) Muhlenberg College, PA. M.S. Physics (1982) Georgia Tech, GA. After 16 years of trying to secure a Ph.D. in Physics, she left GA Tech A.B.D. and began a career of spreading her love of math and physics to those repulsed by those words as if evoking a curse. She tutored and taught at The Westminster Schools and The Lovett School before settling in at Georgia State – Newton campus. Regardless of the diverse teaching locations, her life experiences made her an outspoken advocate of Women in Science. “It doesn’t matter who or what you are, the right answer is the right answer. Screw anybody who doesn’t respect you or the truth!”
In and around her teaching schedule she would pack up the telescope and head to the Charlie Elliot observing field as a member of the Atlanta Astronomy club or perfect the garden and backyard in a “going meadow” esthetic or make exotic cooking adventures to foreign lands. When there was energy left over, she could be a wicked bowler and vocal tennis player.
Sarah’s life and birthday was celebrated on October 19th, 2023 at The Marlay House in Decatur Georgia. The Seed & Feed kicked off her party in fine form. She was toasted by family, friends and coworkers. Sarah is now free to learn first hand the mysteries of the Universe at a level that excludes us mortals.
If you wish to honor Sarah’s memory and love of animals, please give a donation in her name at https://lifelineanimal.org/donate-today/
Tania Chatman says
My Sincerest Prayers and Deepest Condolences to you all during this season of loss.
Julius Zalla says
I Spoke with Jeffrey Nealer about Sarah and It is very easy to tell that they were not only great partners, but best friends as well. I offer my condolences to the friends and family of Sarah, and while it is hard to grieve the passing, I hope there are also fond memories and moments that celebrate her life.
David P. Kozinski says
Just tonight (9/8/24) I just found out about Sarah’s death and am saddened by it. We were classmates for just the senior year of high school (1973-74) but had a valued friendship. She was witty, warm, lovely, adventurous. We lost touch but I often remembered her fondly. Wherever she is now is a better place. This world is diminshed.
David P. Kozinski
Merrick McCabe says
The last hurrah of a massive star… a supernova. Sarah’s brilliance illuminated all around her, and her warmth touched to the core. What a gift to have experienced her powerful force. That energy carries on within each of us.