Mary Howard Obituary

Blessed to live 100 years, Mary Howayeck Howard peacefully passed away on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. Born in Providence, RI, Mary, beloved wife of the late Samuel Peter Howard, Sr was the last surviving child of the late Lown and Hasaba Jacob Howayeck. Perpetually equipped with a quick wit and a sprinkle of sass, Mary carved a niche in her local communities and ultimately settled in her hometown, Greenville, SC. Her skillset lent naturally to Bridge table triumphs, where her playful boasting was subsidiary to the pride she felt for her family and friends. Her warm spirit combined with an unwavering devotion and diligence created a flair of servitude which touched countless lives. To label her as special is the understatement of her century. As a long-time member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, she could be spotted in the same pew like clockwork with her family. She was also active in the St. Mary's Women's Club and the St. Theresa's Guild. Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Susan Smith and Lisa Norris; sons, David Howard, Daniel Howard (Nan) and Jeffrey Howard (Linda Coble); daughter-in-law, Jane Howard; beloved grandchildren, Christine Howard (Mike Kerley), Leslie Poinsette (Mike), Jennifer Traynham (Ruston), Ashley Smith (James Keiner), Stephen Norris and Kevin Norris (Summer); much adored, great grandchildren, Isabel Poinsette, Jane Poinsette, Michael Poinsette, Jordan Plumblee, Jacob Traynham, Mary Layne Traynham and Madelyn Keiner. In addition to her parents and loving husband, Mary was preceded in death by her son, Samuel Howard, Jr. and her sons-in-laws, Bob Smith and Ricky Norris. Love and a deep gratitude extend to her amazing care team, Towanda Bowens, Christie Ligon, Donna Rhoten, Samantha Cochran, Crystal Dogan, Twyia Gray, Tausha Shell, Rosevelyn Batson Cooper, and Pretella Robinson. A Recitation of the Rosary will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. followed by visitation until 11:30 a.m. at Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Downtown Chapel. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025 at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Saint Rafka Maronite Catholic Church and/or The Monastery of St. Claire.