Mrs. Geneva Howard

Mrs. Geneva (McKinney) Howard, the daughter of the late Alexander and Reather (Jeans) McKinney, was born on Friday October 23, 1936 in Waldo, Arkansas. She gave her life to Christ at an early age. She united in holy matrimony with Ben F. Howard on August 11, 1957 to this union 6 children were born. After moving their family from Kennett, MO they migrated to Chicago, IL. They moved back to Kennett, MO and from there they eventually settled in Alton, IL where she united with Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church. She remained a faithful member for over 50 years until God called her home. She served on the Usher Board, Sunday School teacher and the Mother’s Board. She was a Missionary and loved studying the Bible, oh how she loved ministering and praying for everyone. She was a very devout Christian. One of her most beloved and treasured hobbies included crocheting. She found great joy in making an Afghan for all her children and Grandchildren. She enjoyed spending time with her loved ones. She also enjoyed game shows, crossword puzzles, flowers, and gardening. She was very creative and loved crafting. She graduated from Kennett High School. Mother was a caregiver to all as demonstrated through her various occupations in healthcare, childcare, and as a laborer. She spent a good portion of her life as a foster parent. She was so full of love and shared it freely with everyone. But she had a soft spot for children. She leaves to cherish her memories, her husband Ben F. Howard, their 6 children: Rayna (Greg) Washpun of St, Paul, MN; Cynthia Howard of Alton, IL; Sandra (Dennis) Lovett of Alton, IL; Teresa Johnson of Belleville, IL; Darren Howard of Alton, IL and Jaquisha (John) Brumfield of Alton, IL; her sister Zuella Muse of Grand Rapids, MI; special cousin Maude Johnson of Jamaica, NY., 23 grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren; 2 sisters-in-law Gena and Loutellia McKinney of Kennett, MO; Brother and Sister-in-Law Cecil and Helen Howard of San Diego, CA; a host of nieces, nephews, many other relatives and friends along with her beloved bonus and godchildren as well. She was blessed to spend 86 years with her loved ones. On June 14, 2023, she fell asleep peacefully in the arms of the Lord to be reunited with all 8 of her brothers: Tom, Timothy, Alexander, James, Jethro, John, Edward, and Jewell. Along with special friends Mildred Hutson and Stella Greer.

Mrs. Geneva Howard

October 23, 1926 - June 14, 2023