May 11, 1927 – September 14, 2025

“She soared with grace, taught with heart, and lived with purpose.”

Arleta Bowles Keith passed away on Sunday, September 14, 2025 in Friendswood, Texas.  She was born on May 11, 1927, in Friendswood, Texas, to Ose and Elita Bowles—a hardworking and principled couple who raised her and her older sister Leila with faith, strength, and a deep appreciation for education, service, and character.

Arleta grew up in the quiet, close-knit community of Friendswood, where she quickly stood out for her intelligence, poise, and gentle nature. She graduated from Friendswood High School in 1943 as the valedictorian of her class of three—a title that spoke not only to her academic excellence, but to her lifelong commitment to doing her very best, no matter the setting or size of the stage.

From an early age, Arleta showed a rare and vibrant passion for music. She followed that calling to North Texas University, where she pursued her dream of becoming a music teacher—not just to perform, but to uplift and inspire others through the power of melody and harmony. Her love of music became a constant thread through every season of her life.

Arleta’s ambitions didn’t stop at the classroom. With the quiet confidence that defined her, she earned her pilot’s license—a bold achievement, especially for a woman of her era. In 1976, she made her mark by winning first place in the Flower Bomb Contest, a thrilling aviation competition that tested skill, precision, and nerve. Arleta wasn’t just a pilot—she was a pioneer, always reaching beyond expectations.

As a dedicated military wife, Arleta embraced a life of service and sacrifice alongside her husband in Africa.  While there, she was hired to be the choir director for the American school, but when the band director left unexpectedly, she agreed to also teach band, something she had not done previously.  While stationed in Africa, she gave birth to her first son, Douglas Monahan—a profound milestone that brought joy in the midst of distant and unfamiliar surroundings. After returning to the United States, Arleta gave birth to her second son, Marty Monahan, building the family that would become her greatest treasure.

When Arleta relocated to the Clear Lake area, she spent the remainder of her teaching career in the Clear Creek ISD, mostly teaching elementary school.  She had a knack for getting younger kids to participate and to love music.  Many teachers in the upper grades knew when students had been part of her classes.  Arleta was eventually able to purchase a Grand Piano, which had a prominent place in her living room, and she loved to play, especially for her friends.

Arleta also volunteered with the Houston Symphony as a greeter and usher where she met several lifelong friends.  Later in life she met, and married Jack Keith and they enjoyed many years together.

Throughout her life, Arleta embodied many roles: educator, aviator, wife, mother, and mentor. But above all, she lived with quiet strength, unfailing integrity, and a gracious heart. Whether guiding students in a classroom, soaring through Texas skies, or holding her family close, she brought presence, warmth, and purpose to everything she touched.

Those who knew Arleta will remember her calm spirit, gentle smile, wise words, and occasionally, her stubbornness. She never demanded attention—yet commanded deep respect. Her life was a rich symphony of courage, intellect, grace, and love.

Arleta loved the Lord and at the end, she often mentioned she was ready to go home to be with her Savior, Jesus Christ, and to see her family.  But even then, she wanted to know if and how she could help others.  Though she has taken her final flight, her story lives on—in every song played, every sky watched, and every life she touched. Her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her carry her memory forward, as both inspiration and guide.

Arleta was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Leila, her husband Jack and her two sons.  She is survived by her stepchildren, numerous family members, and friends who loved her and will miss her dearly.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. at Friendswood Friends Cemetery, 502 S. Friendswood Dr., Friendswood, Texas 77546 with Rev. Bobby Kirkpatrick officiating.

“She taught us to fly—not just in planes, but in life.”

Forever our teacher, our pilot, and our guiding star.