Mary Ann Howard

Mary Ann (Gardner) Howard, age 80, of Nimrod, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 9th, 2024 with her husband and son by her side at the Perry County Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She was born in Morrilton on October 19th, 1944, to the late Floyd Freeman Gardner and Imogene (Hawks) Gardner of Perryville, Arkansas. Mary Ann graduated as Valedictorian from Perryville High School in 1962, where she was also a member of the National Honor Society, FHA, and the basketball team. Following high school, she attended Arkansas Tech University in Russellville. She began her professional career working for People’s Identity Insurance at a wage of $1.25 an hour. Mary Ann later joined First Electric Cooperative in Perryville as an administrative assistant, where she was known for her helpfulness and dedication to her customers and coworkers. She retired after 32 years to FEC. Mary was a member of the Nimrod First Baptist Church. After retirement, she often helped senior members of the Nimrod community by providing transportation to needed appointments or delivering a meal. Mary was an avid bingo player, known for her quick wit and competitive spirit. She loved spending time with friends and family, playing cards, shopping, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. She was also a member of the Perry County Cattlemen’s Association and the Extension Homemakers Club, where she actively participated in various community events and projects. Mary was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Stanley (Doc) Howard; son Kenny (Kelli) Howard of Nimrod; sister Carolyn Sue (Dr. Tommy) Brown of Cherry Hill, and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at Nimrod Baptist Church at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 12th, with Bro. Charles Smith officiating. The family will receive guests one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at Nimrod Cemetery by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Mary Ann will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her kind heart and unwavering spirit will forever remain in our memories. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Nimrod Cemetery Fund. Dad, Kelli, and I would like to thank our family, friends, and neighbors for their thoughts and prayers during this difficult and trying time. We would also like to thank them for the beautiful flowers, donations, and support. A very special thanks to Brother Charles Smith and Brother Rick Humphreys for officiating. You guys are wonderful!

Mary Ann Howard

October 19, 1944 - December 9, 2024