Mary Francis Howard

Mary Francis Howard, 76, North Manchester, passed away surrounded by her loving family on October 1, 2024, at the age of 76 at her home. Mary was born in Logan County, West Virginia on June 6, 1948, to Willard Don and Mary Lou (Spriggs) Chafin. During her beautiful life, Mary found great joy in her roles as a mother, grandmother, and active member of her church.

On July 3, 1964 Mary married Forrest Howard. During their sixty years of marriage they were blessed with five children and many wonderful memories together. Throughout her life, Mary worked diligently at various places including Woodcraft, Eaton Controls, Heckman Bindery, Peabody Retirement Community, and Hardee’s.

Known for her unwavering love and protective nature towards her family, Mary was a nurturing and spirited individual. Mary's devotion to her family was unparalleled. As a Den Mother during her daughters' formative years, she was a fierce protector and provider. She was a nurturing and loving presence in their lives, always ready to lend a helping hand and share a kind word. Mary's love extended beyond her immediate family, as she spent quality time with her grandchildren and willingly provided care and affection whenever they needed it.

Mary's delightful personality and compassionate nature endeared her to all who had the pleasure of meeting her. She had a talent for striking up heartfelt conversations with anyone and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.

A dedicated member of the North Manchester Church of the Nazarene, Mary volunteered her time as a Sunday School Teacher and served on the Board, embodying her deep faith through service and kindness.

The loving memory of Mary Howard will be forever cherished by her husband, Forrest Howard, North Manchester; daughters, Shara (Ed) Eubank, Sandy Howard, Gina (Tom) Sizemore, all of North Manchester, and Baliegh Nicole Howard, Cincinnati, Ohio; brother, Ronald Chafin, Mingo County, West Virginia; sister, Joann Marcum, North Manchester; nine grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. Mary was preceded in death by her parents; son, Michael Howard; brothers, James and Donald Chafin; sister, Jewell Gartin; one granddaughter, Shyanne Oberg; and great-grandchild, Kaiden Howard.

Family and friends may call Friday, October 4, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling with Pastor Kent Harting officiating. Burial will be held at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, 400 East and 1300 North, North Manchester, Indiana.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Mary Howard, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, attention donor services, 225 North Michigan Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, Illinois 60601.

The family of Mary Howard has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.