Sara Ann Sara Ann Sexton, age 79. Legendary English teacher, Minneapolis Southwest High School. She is survived by her sister, Peggy Bouveret, who resides in Paris. Sara earned a Bachelor of Arts from the College of St. Catherine in 1959 and a Master of Arts from the University of St. Thomas in 1991.

Over her more than 45 years of teaching, Sara changed the lives of generations of students. While at Southwest High School, Sara launched the International Baccalaureate Program. Every school in the community that now offers the IB curriculum owes it to the success of her work. She was awarded the Minneapolis Public Schools Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1987 and the College of St. Catherine Alumni Award in 1997.

Of teaching, Sara said, "I was happy every day for 40 years." When she taught her students, she hoped they would learn how to move in the world with integrity; how to love richly and well; how to be rational, honest, generous, and humble. She was an extraordinary friend, and throughout her life she collected a band of smart, funny, strong-minded people who adored her. She loved gin, good food, all dogs, and fast Porsches.

Many will wish to honor her life. She did not want a funeral, and so no public service will be held. Remember Sara in your heart when you read great literature and listen to beautiful music. Honor her life by engaging your intellect and spirit with the world around you, as she taught.

If a life is measured by the difference it makes to others, Sara Ann Sexton lived a hundred lifetimes. Those who knew her are so much richer for having be given the love of her strong, courageous heart. 

Memorials preferred to The Humane Society of the United States and the Schubert Club.

 Published on June 9, 2017