Myrna Farrell Howe passed peacefully on April 9th, 2024, in Yarmouth, MA. She was the daughter of J. Norman and Miriam (Wells) Farrell. A lifelong resident of Wellesley and Sherborn, MA, she had strong ties to her beloved summer home in South Chatham, MA.
Myrna Farrell Howe was a pillar of love and support to her family. She was cherished (lovingly called Mummy) by her daughters Sharen Howe O’Connell (and Jeff Beatty), and Celeste Howe (and Michelle Aceto). Her three grandchildren, Rachel Lynn, Megan O’Connell, and Sawyer Lynn, and step grandchildren, Jen Beatty and Meghan Beatty held a special place in her heart, earning her the honorary title of Grammy. She was Myrnie to her sisters Meredith (and Jack Ruggieri), and Brenda (and Ronnie Muoio). As part of a close-knit family of five children, she was Auntie Myrna to many nieces and nephews, always ready with a warm smile and a listening ear. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her brother, Wayne Farrell, and her sister, Beverly Moodie.
Myrna's life was a testament to service and faith. A graduate of New England Baptist Hospital, she dedicated thirty years to nursing, touching countless lives. Her commitment to the Unitarian Faith was unwavering, embodying its principles of compassion for social justice and charitable giving for the underserved. She was a valued member of the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church in Sherborn, where she found joy in her work for the Good As New Charitable Consignment Shop. In the past thirty years, she extended her service to the First Parish Unitarian Church in Framingham, becoming a beloved member of the community. In addition to her charitable ways, she found joy in the simple pleasures of riding her bike, walking, golfing, spending time with her large extended family, and traveling to Europe.
Myrna’s ability to bond and uplift people drew many friends into her circle. She was the first to respond when someone was in need and took great pleasure in deep conversations and listening intently. Her love of music, which stemmed from a musical family background, brought her great joy. She enjoyed everything from jazz to opera and traveled regularly to Boston for nights at the Boston Opera House. She was a woman of high style and loved the art of fashion, not just for herself but for others. She truly admired beauty, and flowers made her brown eyes sparkle. Her animated voice and joie de vivre will forever leave a mark on the hearts of all who knew her: sweet peace, beloved Myrna, 89 years of a life well-lived.
On April 14, 2024 there will be a private family remembrance of Myrna. There will also be a memorial service celebrating Myrna’s life on September 28, 2024 at 2:00pm at the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church of Framingham, 24 Vernon Street, Framingham, MA 01701. All are welcome ~
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) or the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church of Framingham.
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