Shirley Williams Howard

Shirley Williams Howard, born on March 20, 1945, in Laurel, Mississippi, was a devoted servant to her community and a beacon of selflessness. She attended Oak Park High School, where she met the love of her life, Fred Howard. Her unwavering faith was central to her life, and she was an active member of Word of Life Church, volunteering tirelessly and leading groups. Her Christian faith was also shaped by Pleasant Valley Missionary Baptist Church and Greater Bethlehem Temple.
Shirley dedicated many years as a surgical technologist at Baptist Hospital and River Oaks Hospital, where her love for helping others shone through. She found great joy in labor and delivery, sharing stories of the happiness she felt assisting new lives. Her passion for children led her to found and direct the childcare center at Greater Bethlehem Temple Church, leaving a lasting impact on many young lives.
Known for her incredible talent and creative touch, Shirley had a gift for making everything beautiful, from crafting jewelry to arranging flowers. She especially enjoyed decorating the church for Christmas and participating in her sewing small group, where she formed lasting friendships.
Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love and service, remembered for her warm smile and open heart. Her life was a testament to grace and kindness, drawing strength from her faith. She cherished her family, finding joy in their company and filling their lives with warmth and wisdom. Though she is no longer with us, her love will live on in the hearts of her family forever.
Shirley is survived by her husband, Fred Howard; daughters Veronica Howard, Deidre Hulbert, and Jamila Jones; sons-in-law Troy Hulbert and William Jones, III; grandchildren Fredrick Howard, Troy Hulbert (Jessica), Andrew Hulbert, Lauren Jones, and Ariel Jones; great-grandchildren Jaiden Hulbert, Jayce Hulbert, Sariah Howard, Mason Howard, and Jenee Howard; siblings Patricia Grant (Gary), Geneva Butler (Roby), John Williams (Barbara), Linda Williams, and Ross Williams (Janice); sister-in-law Jaunita Powe; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, John Robert and Sarah Williams, and her granddaughter, Sara Howard.