It is with great sadness the family of Paula Howard announces her death on Monday, January 17, at 2:00 am.
Paula was a long time resident of Ft. Madison. She owned and operated Paula's Portrait Studio in the 1960's. After selling the studio in 1975, she began painting with the oil paints she previously used for painting her black and white photographic portraits. She found a new love in oil painting and went on to explore all types of mediums through the years. She became an award winning artist and was an original founding member of the Ft. Madison Art Center. She remained active in the art community throughout the rest of her life. If it was not a paintbrush in her hand, it was a shovel or spade, as she created a masterpiece in her garden. The world was her canvas and she felt it her responsibility to splash as much color on it as possible.
Paula was preceded in death in 1983 by her husband of 30 years, Michael Howard. She is survived by three sons: Jack (wife Virginia) Sears, of Deerfield, Illinois; Greg (wife Ianka) Howard, of Ft. Madison; and Brad (wife Becky) Howard of Dallas, Texas; one daughter, Monica (husband Tad) Mailander, of San Diego, CA., six grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
Paula was an inspiration to many and we will miss our mother, nana, aunt, friend, mentor. It was her wish that at the time of her passing, her friends and family would gather, not to mourn, but to remember and celebrate her life. Please join us in this celebration on Saturday, January 22nd, from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at the Ft. Madison Art Center, 825 Avenue G. Beginning at 5:30 pm, we will pause to give anyone who wishes an opportunity to share a special thought or memory.
Bouquets fade quickly and it was Paula's request that no flowers be sent. Please consider instead a more lasting tribute in the way of a donation to the art center or planting a rose in your garden.