Obituary: Lillie P. Howard, 89, of Norwich

Information via Woyasz & Soon Funeral Service

Lillie P. Howard, 89, died peacefully on Saturday, October, 29, 2016 after an extended bout with cancer. Born in Roseboro, North Carolina on July 27, 1927 she was the daughter of the late William and Lillie (Faircloth) Inman.

A longtime resident of Norwich, Lillie worked for more than 30 years as a charge aide at the former Norwich Hospital. She retired in 1981, allowing her to spend more time doing the things she loved. An original member of the Fireside Extension Club formed in 1958, Lillie relished their monthly luncheons and spending time with her closest friends. She enjoyed travel, and was a loyal fan of UConn basketball. She was also an avid gardener and a wonderful seamstress with a keen sense of fashion.

As a longtime member of the Lee Memorial Methodist Church, Lillie attended services regularly and took an active role in her congregation.Most of all, Lillie loved her family. Lillie took a strong interest in the lives of her three grandchildren and their families. She also loved her family throughout the country.

In 1986, Lillie met the love of her life, her longtime companion John Leone Sr. of Norwich. Soon, John's family became her family, as well. No matter how close or how far, Lillie traveled often to be with loved ones and they loved her in return.

Lillie was predeceased by her sons James Howard Jr. of Cape Coral, FL and William H. Howard Sr. of Brooklyn, CT. She is survived by her brother William Inman Jr. of Las Vegas, NV and his sons Carl of Laguna Hills, CA and Michael of Santa Anna, CA; her daughter-in-law Barbara Howard of Fort Myers, FL; her grandson William H. Howard Jr. and his family of Norwich, CT; her grandson Seth Howard and his family of Cape Coral, FL; her grandson Shad Howard and his family also of Cape Coral, FL, as well as extended family and friends.

The family would like to extend our gratitude to the caring staff of Orchard Grove Specialty Care and the Center for Hospice Care, especially Annie, Mandy, Barbara and Stephanie.A funeral service will be held on Friday, Nov 4th, at 10:00 am, at Lee Memorial Methodist Church, 294 Washington St, Norwich. Burial will follow at Maplewood Cemetery. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, Nov. 3rd, from 4-7 pm at the Woyasz & Son Funeral Home, 141 Central Ave, Norwich. Donations in her memory may be made to Lee Memorial Church.