Shirley Howard

SOUTHBRIDGE:  Shirley Helen (Makela) Howard, age 86, passed away following a short illness, at Southbridge Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center.

 Shirley was a beloved mother, aunt, and grandmother. She leaves two sons: Bradford C. Howard and his wife, Leonie; and Kent S. Howard, his wife, MaryBeth, as well as their three children, David, Andrew, and Jacob. All are of Charlton, MA.

 Shirley also leaves a nephew Richard D. Makela, Jr., and two nieces: Tyyna Bailey and Tammy Gillespie, as well as their husbands, and children Sarah, Susannah, Olivia, Laura, Gregory, Tim, Jr., Caitlin, and Kelly, all from Fulton, Missouri.

 Shirley was predeceased by a brother, Richard D Makela of Attleboro, Massachusetts. She was a Born of the late Charles A. and Ingrid M. Makela, Shirley hailed from Worcester, MA, and graduated from Commerce High School in 1947, and Worcester State College, in 1951. She taught elementary school Westchester County, New York, and later in many Central Massachusetts communities. She retired to Hyannis, MA.

 Shirley belonged to the Order of the Eastern Star, and the National Geographic Society. She loved the outdoors, walking, with her dogs, whenever possible. She was kind to her cats and savored time spent with them and a good book. Her sons, grandsons, nieces, and nephews were a great source of pride to Shirley, and she taught us some practical lessons. We will miss her dearly.

 In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to a local Animal Shelter, or to the Activity Fund at Southbridge Rehabilitation Center.