Mark D. Howdyshell

Mark Dennis Howdyshell, 47, of Grottoes, passed away Tuesday, (Nov. 15, 2005) at Rockingham Memorial Hospital, following a brief illness. Mr. Howdyshell was born in Harrisonburg on Sept. 6, 1958, and was a son of Doyle W. and Esther (Beard) Howdyshell of Fort Defiance. He worked as a Press Operator at Detamore Printing in Staunton. He was a member of New Hope United Methodist Church, were he was also active in the youth group. He was a member of the Boy Scouts of America, New Hope Troop # 86, where was a Scout Master. He was also a member of the Girl Scouts Troop # 490, and was a Girl Scout Leader. He was a member of the Fort Defiance High School Band Booster. He was united in marriage on July 24, 1979 to Elizabeth M. "Beth" (McCray) Howdyshell, who survives. Surviving in addition to his wife and parents are one daughter, Emily Renee Howdyshell of Grottoes; one son, Timothy Michael Howdyshell of Grottoes; two sisters, Nancy L. Howdyshell of Roanoke and Janice E. Howdyshell of Staunton; two brothers, James W. Howdyshell and wife, Linda S., and David F. Howdyshell both of Grottoes. A service will be conducted at the New Hope United Methodist Church at 11 a.m. on Friday, (Nov. 18, 2005) with the Rev. Douglas Gunsalus officiating. Burial will follow at the Oak Lawn Cemetery, in New Hope. Memorial contributions can be made to Fort Defiance High School Band, 195 Fort Defiance Rd., Fort Defiance, Va., 24437. The family will receive friends today from 7-8:30 p.m., at Johnson Funeral Service Grottoes Chapel. The casket will be closed. E-mail condolences may be sent to the family at www.johnsonfs.com. Johnson Funeral Service, Grottoes is in charge of arrangements.