We moved in next door to the Howletts in Stratford when I was 8 years old - at that time Susan was 5 and Marie was pregnant with Jill. We lived there for 5 years, and during that time, Marie became a treasured friend to our whole family and a second mother to me. So many wonderful memories! I'll never forget listening to the chaotic bridge games between Marie and Bob and my parents downstairs in our living room. I always knew Spring was coming when I came home from school in late March and found Mom and Marie sunbathing in the back yard, Coppertone at hand. Marie taught me how to iron a shirt, and to this day I think of her whenever I'm ironing a shirt! She made us countless roast pork/sauerkraut and dumpling dinners because she knew how much we loved them. She later shared her pulled pork recipe with me, and it's a favorite among everyone we know. As you can see, I could go on and on, so I'll just say that Marie was one of our favorite people on Earth - we are so grateful to have had her in our lives. We will love and miss her forever, and we send our healing prayers and loving thoughts to Sue, Jill, Meribeth and all the family. Always love Betsy and Frank Menser

Oh the fun memories of staying at Marie Howlett's house as a child. I was so blessed to have Meribeth as my best friend growing up and so I spent many weekends at the Howlett's as if I was part of the family. There were so many fun memories in Poughkeepsie and Mint Hill when I was welcomed for visits after moving away. But to this day I can still see Marie's face as I walked down the aisle at my wedding. She was the first person I saw and as tears of joy flowed down her face I could feel the love that she had for me. What a special woman Mrs. Howlett was to me. She will be missed so many who loved her. God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:3 A big hug to all the family from me. Celeste Castaneda

Marie was the kind of woman I'd like to be at age 87. Always ready for FUN and socializing with the people she loved. She loved people and people loved her. Here is a picture of a recent outing with a few of her fans - brunch and a production of "Cinderella" at Raleigh Little Theater, tiaras included. I will miss dear Marie. Julie E.

I have such fond childhood memories at the Howlett house. I thought it was such a treat when Marie would make Meribeth and I spagettios. She was always laughing, or sunbathing, or having fun with her buddy - my dad (Herm Heidorn). Marie was a true friend to us. She will always have a special place in my heart. God bless the family at this time. My prayers are with you. Karen Heidorn Calvert