In loving memory of Arlea Hope Howell

Arlea Hope Howell was an educator above all things. Every memory of my Grandma has her teaching me something - gardening, cooking, fishing, love of literature, community service, appropriate tick removal, playing games, etc. My Grandmother was an amazing woman.

Memories of my Grandmother

When I was 9 or 10 my parents took a long trip to Egypt and Israel. Grandma took all of the kids in my family and drove us around the state to stay with cousins. She would let us stay for a while, then pick us up and take us to another house. The best part was on the way we would stop at every historical marker. Grandma would tell us the history of the roads we traveled. I never questioned whether she knew her stuff or not, she just did. Later in college I actually used one of the lessons she taught me on a paper and had to call her for more information.

Another of my strongest lessons in life was when we went to a school carnival at the elementary school where Grandma was the principal. She let us participate in the cake walk - and I won two cakes! I thought that was the best part, but I didn't want to share. I figured they were my prizes. Grandma pulled me aside and helped me understand that if I made that choice, the majority of the cake would go to ruin and everyone else would be sad. I was kind of mad at her at the time for making me share...but I did it - and it was the right decision. The next time we went down Grandma was dressed as a giant Kool-aid man, it is hard to stay mad at that!

Arlea and Demont Howell have been two strong pillars in my life. Things I have learned from them have helped shape who I am. I am grateful for the knowledge that I have that we can be together again, but I will sure miss them now. Grandpa left us two years ago in September and Grandma passed away Sunday August 15th. Although I am glad they are together again, she will be grately missed.

I love you Grandma!

(Grandma and Mom)
Arlea Howell raised six children who have since had 33 children (and great grandchildren....). Because of her efforts, all of the cousins know each other and we stay involved with the others lives (some more than others :) ).