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Helen Marie Jones Howard, 89, neighborhood ‘mom’ to many children in Pine Valley

Helen Marie Jones Howard

WILMINGTON — Helen Marie Jones Howard, 89, loving wife and mother of five, departed this earth for her eternal heavenly home Tuesday, April 7, 2020, with her husband, Don, by her side.

Helen was born July 25, 1930, in Richlands to John and Leona Jones. She moved to Wilmington with her family in her early teen years. Soon thereafter, in her twenties, she would marry and be blessed with five children, who she dedicated her life to raising. She was the biological mom of five, but was often thought of as a mom to many in the Pine Valley neighborhood where her children grew up. Helen was always willing to lend a listening ear and a word of wisdom to many friends and neighborhood kids who came seeking her support, which was quite often.

Helen was later employed as a cashier at Gibson’s Department Store and as an administrative assistant at Dowless Sheet Metal & Roofing, where she met and would later marry the true love of her life, Don Howard. Helen was always a supportive wife during their nearly 45 years together. Although Helen spent the last several years of her life in the care of Woodberry Wellness Center, each day she would wait with great anticipation for Don to visit, and he always did! The love they had for each other was special. Although they may be physically apart, their love will forever remain until they meet again.

Helen was a woman of grace and beauty with a caring heart and sweet spirit. She had a passion for people and loved the Lord! She was a lover of good music and old hymns. Her favorite singer was none other than The King, Elvis! When she heard him sing, she would flash the brightest smile, and her eyes would light up big enough to illuminate the darkest of rooms.

During Helen’s time at Woodberry Wellness, she grew fond of many of her caretakers, and they in turn grew fond of her as well. The family would like to thank the special staff of Woodberry for their love care and compassion.

Helen was preceded in death by her father, John Jones; mother, Leona Carter Jones Miller; and brother, Carlayne Jones.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Don Howard; children, Terri Langley, Alan Whiteted (Debbie), Tina Best (Dale), Howard Whiteted Jr. (Louise) and Larry Whiteted, all of Wilmington; six grandchildren; and brother, Carl Miller (Karen) of Garner.

A service will not be held due to Covid-19.

Share online condolences with the family at Atlantic Cremation Service.

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