Mary Ann Howard

Mary Ann (Archer) Howard, age 87, of Lamar, MO, passed away peacefully at home Friday, November 9th, 2018, surrounded by her loving family. Mary Ann was born November 13, 1930, to George and Laura Archer, in Adrian, MO, where she grew up and attended school. After graduating high school, Mary Ann attended Central Methodist College in Fayette, MO, and University of Missouri in Columbia to study vocal music.   During her collegiate years, Mary Ann met her future husband, Kenneth Howard, on a blind date.  She and Kenneth married September 2nd, 1951, and shared 67 precious years together.  Mary Ann was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. A long-time member of the Lamar United Methodist Church, Mary Ann loved singing in the choir and directing the children’s choir. She was known to be a talented pianist, organist, and vocalist who taught students in her home for many years, including several of her grandchildren. Mary Ann loved nature and being outside in her flower garden. Every spring she looked forward to when she could begin to plant her garden.  Mary Ann grew up on a farm with many animals and always allowed her children to have an assortment of pets, including: dogs, cats, horses, and ducks. For a time, she had a pet quail and a pet raccoon. Her husband and family were blessed daily by her lifelong pursuit to love and serve them. Holidays at the Howard’s were an extravaganza of beautifully decorated trees and tables, with plenty of wonderful food. Birthdays were always celebrated by a precisely planned homemade meal. Making cheesecakes was her specialty. Mary Ann’s memory will be cherished by her friends and family. She is survived by her husband, Kenneth Howard. Additional survivors include 3 children: Nancy Adams (John), David Howard (Joani), and Susan Roland (Curt), all of Lamar, MO. 8 grandchildren: Allison Van Da Griff (Travis) of Webb City, MO, Emily Adams of Joplin, MO, Daniel Howard of Queen Creek, Arizona, Katlyne Hoelscher (Brennan) of Troy, MO, Taylor Howard of Waialua, Hawaii, Kailey Jungmann (Brenyn) of Webb City, MO, Kenna Russell (Jacob) of Lenexa, KS, and Kip Roland of Lamar, MO. 5 great-grandchildren: Ayla Van Da Griff, Chloe Howard, Rory Howard, Grady Hoelscher, and Hayes Hoelscher.  Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, George and Laura Archer, and two brothers, George P. Archer and John E. Archer. Visitation will be Monday, November 12 at 10 a.m. at Daniel Funeral Home in Lamar, MO with funeral services following at 11 a.m.  The burial will be at Lake Cemetery after the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lamar United Methodist Church or the Barton County Libraries (Children’s Collection).