Maria Enma Howell

Maria Enma Howell, born on June 4, 1933 and passed away peacefully at her home while surrounded by her loving family on December 14, 2024 at the age of 91. She was the cherished wife of 68 years to Hassie Duran Howell. Loving mother of Blasina Edith Howell, Digna Yolanda Howell, Kerr Samuel Howell, Sr. and Jose` Edgar Howell (Debbie). Proud grandmother of Kerr S. Howell Jr., Mindy M. Lyons, Jonathan P. Howell, Nickolas R. Howell, Alli R. Earhart, Benjamin D. Diaz, Ariel E. Howell and Alexis S. Howell. Great grandmother of Maddox Carbuccia, Kyndall Earhart, Noah Earhart and Adalynn Melerine. Sister of Digna Esperanza Mejia and the late Jose Monje Zavala and Elida Yolanda Bueso. Daughter of the late Blasina Zavala viuda de Izquierdo. Granddaughter of the late Maximo and Thomasa Zavala. She is also survived and fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Born in Honduras, Central America, our dear Maria leaves behind a life of love, faith, and selflessness. Maria graduated from high school in Honduras, CA, and throughout her life, she embraced many roles with grace and dedication. She served as a Post Office Clerk at the Honduras Post Office, a skilled Seamstress, a talented Baker, a caring Landlord, and, above all, a devoted Housewife and Mother. Her love for family was evident in everything she did, especially in the way she nurtured and cared for those around her.

Maria found joy in the simple pleasures of life - crocheting, knitting, embroidery, and designing beautiful clothes. She was a gifted artist who poured her love into every stitch. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the delicious aroma of her Honduran meals, which she lovingly prepared for her family on Sundays and Holidays.

A deeply spiritual woman, Maria was an active member of her Catholic community. She led weekly prayer meetings with her faithful friends, and her devotion to her faith was a central part of her life. Maria found great fulfillment in caring for others and was always there to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Maria had a passion for travel, especially embarking on religious pilgrimages to Europe and Israel, where she deepened her spiritual connection. She also enjoyed dancing, particularly to the rhythm of Spanish Boleros, with her beloved husband, creating treasured memories together.

Maria will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her kind heart, and the countless lives she touched. She leaves behind her loving family and friends, who will carry her memory with them forever. Rest in peace, dear Maria. You were our pillar of courage and strength and a wonderful example of what it means to care for others.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at ST. BERNARD MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Thursday, December 19th from 12:00PM – 2:00PM, followed by a Funeral Mass beginning at 2:00PM. Maria will be laid to eternal rest in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens.