Laura K Howard

Laura K. Howard, age 85, of Appleton, WI, passed away peacefully at home on July 7, 2025. She was born on September 10, 1939 in Mt. Solon, VA to the late William Jennings Bryan and Erma Lucille (Daggy) Furr.

Laura graduated high school in 1956 when she was just 16 years old, and soon after moved to the Washington, DC area for a job with the FBI. Along the way, love happened and she married Allen Howard. Laura kept her job with the Bureau but now worked there at night so she could help him during the day with the family business - Howard Plumbing and Heating. Eventually, the family business required her undivided attention. When Allen passed away in 2015, Laura moved to Appleton, WI to be near family. She settled in quickly and was a dedicated volunteer at the Community Clothes Closet.

Laura enjoyed meeting new people and made fast and lasting friendships. Family and friends knew her as loving, selfless, generous and supportive. She adored her pets and had a place in her heart for all God's creatures. Laura was always up for festivities and adventures, especially travel adventures that brought family and friends together - She looked forward to attending her North River High School Class-of-1956 reunion in Virginia every year. Summers on the Outer Banks of North Carolina are unforgettable family events. Then, in September, 2024, in what was to be her last family trip, she finally went to Ireland, a place she always wanted to see.

She is survived by her daughters, Joan (Eric aka E.T.) Davis of Menasha, WI; Ellen (Eric) Martinusen of Washington, D.C.; son, Teddie Knott of Winchester, VA; granddaughter, Holly Jennings (Joseph) Staples; and her beloved great grandson, Wesley Davis Staples of Mazomanie, WI.

A celebration of Laura will be held on Sunday, September 7, 2025 from 1-3pm at the Appleton Yacht Club, 1200 S. Lutz Drive, Appleton, WI. She will rest in peace with Allen in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA