Ruth Joy Howell

Amory - Ruth Joy Howell, 89, passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2015, at River Place Nursing Center. Born on July 24, 1925, in White Springs, MS, she was a daughter of the late James Azel and Reba McFadden Thomas.

She attended New Salem school. In September 1947, she married O. R. “Johny” Howell. For over 30 years, she worked in the cutting room as a sew-bar operator for Glenn Manufacturing. As a homemaker, she started baking cakes for people which turned into a new business venture for her. A faithful member of First Baptist Church, Mrs. Howell enjoyed attending church services at River Place when she was unable to attend First Baptist. One who enjoyed every day to the fullest, she was a people person who loved her family, especially her grandchildren. The best mother and friend to her sons, Mrs. Howell enjoyed traveling with Larry to eat, especially at Long Horn; going to movies and concerts; watching plays; visiting the Grand Ole Opry; and attending MSU football and baseball games. A great cook and a perfectionist, her specialties were caramel and Italian crème cakes. Mrs. Howell’s favorite song was “Working My Way Back to You,” by The Spinners. Writing movie reviews for The Amory Advertiser, she was a movie enthusiast whose favorite movie was Jersey Boys. Mrs. Howell enjoyed playing games and was a competitive Bingo player.

Survivors include her son, Larry Howell, Hoover, AL; daughters-in-law, Sherry Howell, Corinth and Eathel Ray, Riverton, Utah; brother, J. A. Thomas (Sharon), Eatonton, GA; grandchildren, Kerry Farmer (Doug), Lisa McDowell (Terry), John Howell (Christy), Kristi Smith, Jennifer Wilson, and Amy Nielson; 14 great-grandchildren; several nieces & nephews; and special friend, Gertrude Sanders.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sons, John Thomas “Tommy” and Gary W. Howell; sister, Wilma Thomas Reese Thomas; brother, Rubel Thomas; and special friends, Carolyn Leech, Emma Langford.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2 PM, Thursday, June 4 at E. E. Pickle Funeral Home, Amory, with Dr. Allen Simpson and Bro. Jimmy McFatter officiating. Burial will follow in Hatley. Pallbearers will be Jerry, David, and Steve Reese; Bobby Joe Stevens; Taylor Bragan; and Stan Thomas.

Visitation will be from 5 - 8 PM, Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memories and condolences may be shared with her family at EEPickleFuneralHome.com.