Tributes

Nora Jane Forester was born in Wichita Falls, Texas on Jan 20, 1927 to George Rollo and Ethel Davidson. After graduating from Electra High School she briefly attended Our Lady of the Lake College in San Antonio. After strong encouragement from her older brother Rollo, she transferred to The University of Texas in Austin. There she received her Bachelor of Science Degree. Nora began her teaching career in the 50’s at Edgewood ISD. It was there that she met an aspiring young principal, James Allen Forester. They later married and had four children. Nora then went on to have a 29 year career at Northside ISD. She taught at various elementary schools then became the first Reading Specialist for Northside ISD during which she built the districts reading program and became internationally known in reading circles. She also served on the Board of Directors for the International Reading Association and President of both the State Reading Council and the Alamo Reading Council. She initiated many programs such as; Reading Recovery, Emergent Literacy, Language to Literacy, Battle of the Books, Young Author’s Conference and Right to Read. She has earned many prominent awards for her work in literacy, research and leadership. As President of Texas Association of Reading, she is credited with developing the reading teacher certification program adopted by the legislature in 1975. Nora enjoyed an illustrious career that took her all over the world allowing her to make a difference in the lives of students everywhere. Nora’s greatest honor was to have Northside ISD dedicate and name a school after her in 2008; Nora Forester Elementary School. Nora was preceded in death by husband of 56 years, Jim (2006), son David (2012) and grandson Wayne (2006), parents and brothers. She is survived by her children Kathy, Nancy (Tommy), Robert, six grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Adante Assisted Living for their wonderful care and love of our mother. We also wish to thank Gentiva Hospice for their loving care of our mother. Visitation Thursday, December 8th, 6:00pm – 8:00pm with Prayer service at 7:00pm at Mission Park North. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Matthews Catholic Church Friday, December 9th at 10:00am. Internment will follow at Mission Park North. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Humane Society of San Antonio, Animal Defense League of San Antonio, NISD Museum Association or a charity of your choice.

Tributes

Nora Jane Forester

January 20, 1927 - December 1, 2016