SHIRLEY HOWARD

Shirley Howard rested peacefully in God’s hands on February 11, 2026, at the age of 90. Born to Aletha E. Stewart and Lawrence B. Stewart on May 31, 1935, in South Carolina.

She attended Central High School and Columbus State Community College. Member of the Robinwood Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses.

Shirley received private security training through the State of Ohio, where she was employed until her retirement. She obtained her certification as a sharpshooter.

In her younger days, you could find her “pearling” around the skating rink at Rollerland or dropping it like it’s hot on a dance floor. Eventually, she had to give up her precision skates, but she did not give up her passion for music and dancing. Even in her eighties, you could still find
Shirley is on a dance floor. Dressed in her bling-bling attire, blue jeans, and high-top Converse sneakers, she was always ready for a dance off! She loved candy (Peppermint, BB Bats, Sugar Daddy, Kitts), conversing with family and friends, shopping at thrift stores, watching westerns or wrestling on tv, and sitting in the backyard with her dog “King”. She sought pleasure in simple things like going over to her Niece’s house for “Movie Night”. Movie night consisted of music, food, laughter, playing “Spades” and watching a specially selected movie to complete the evening. And if you are wondering, how was her “Spades” game? It was pretty good. Shirley never met a stranger! She was friendly and approachable to everyone. She will truly be missed and remembered for her warm smile, gentle demeanor, and desire to put others first.

Preceded in death by Husband Ross L. Howard (Sr); Brothers - Wilford Harrington, Lawrence Stewart (Jr), McHenry Trout, and Jacob Stewart Sisters – Alice Gravity and Rita Lynum. Survived by children, Henry (Shirley) Stewart and Daughter, Gwendolyn (Albert) Beard; Brother, Melvin (Pat) Stewart; Grandchildren – Jonathan Wilson, Alyece Beard, Sepia (Anthony) Gladden, Ti’a (Kelly) Rife, Aisha “Nikki” Blanchard, and Raykale Troy. Shirley also leaves behind a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.