EvaLee L. Howard

UTICA - EvaLee L. Howard, age 55, passed into the arms of the Lord on Thursday, May 23, 2019 at MVHS at St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with her loving family by her side. Born in Rome, NY on December 1, 1963, EvaLee was the daughter of the late James A. and Mary F. (Brown) Howard. Raised and educated locally, she attended Utica Free Academy. EvaLee worked at the Abelove Linen Company and she also “dispensed spirits” as a bartender. She was crazy cool and loved music and dancing because it gave her the freedom to express her inner soul. She was excellent at cooking, especially soul food including collard greens, cabbage, and mac ’n cheese — they all hit the spot! EvaLee’s bright spirit was reflected in her clothing, and she dressed to be seen. She had a vibrant personality and wore bold colors. Back in the day, she enjoyed skating, and playing kick ball with the kids in the neighborhood. She never looked for trouble, but if it came her way, everyone knew she would leave her signature in dealing with it. She listened to a variety of music, but R&B singer Keith Sweat moved her the most. His songs inspired her “karaoke moment” and “Nobody” was her go-to song. EvaLee had a relationship with the Lord and she read the Bible, particularly when she was in pain and needed comfort. Although she was without children herself, she was generous of heart and mind with her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. She was especially close to her godson Marcus Reed and they loved each other. She will be remembered as a sister who was a fierce protector of her siblings, and she had an affinity for respecting others, especially her elders. She was unforgettable, and now she can rest in peace, free from pain. EvaLee shared her life with Hakeen, and he was truly good to her. She is survived by her siblings and their loved ones, Lucille Brown, Mary Jane and William Tolbert, James “Hug” Howard Jr., Theresa Howard and Anthony Hill, Barbara and Rev. Anthony Murray, Charles Howard, Joyce Paulk, Stacey and Ralph Airall, Javelle Howard, Anitra and Allen Jefferson, Eugene Howard, and Amanda Howard; her step-siblings, Shirley and Kenny Troy, Paulette and Earl Lang, Annie and Charles Minor, Carolyn and Wayne Savage, Cathy and Tracy Spencer, Lepolia “Red” Spencer, Angelo and Quinton Spencer, James Spencer, and her step-mother, Annie Mae Howard. She was predeceased by her brother, David Howard; her sisters, Rosalind Lyles, April Howard, Jeanette P. Howard, Latwanya M. Howard, and infant Stephanie Howard; and brothers-in-law, Willie Rodriguez, and Allen Jefferson. She also leaves her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, including Mary Smith, and Patricia Howard; and a host of friends, especially acknowledging Rachael Archie, Thelma Dingo, and Debbie Washington. She was preceded by her nieces, MaryAnn Howard, and Mary Ruffin; nephew, Ammar Williams; and uncles, Jerry Howard, and Paul Howard. The family is grateful to the staff of St. Luke’s PTU and 2nd Floor staff for their kindness and empathy in caring for EvaLee during her final stages of life’s journey; and Bishop Hughes for her pastoral guidance and prayers. Visitation will be held Saturday from 4:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. EvaLee’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday evening at 6:00 immediately upon the conclusion of visitation at the funeral home with her brother-in-law, The Rev. Anthony L. Murray.

EvaLee L. Howard

December 1, 1963 - May 23, 2019