Helen F. Howard, 86

Helen Frances Howard, 86, was called home to be with Jesus on April 28, 2026, in Lakeland, Florida. Helen was born on January 10, 1940, in Covington, Kentucky to the late William C. Fryman and Anna C. Fryman (Lemons).

Helen was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose kindness and warmth touched all who knew her. She attended Grant County High School and graduated from the Chicago American College. She was married for 58 years to the love of her life, the late Ross E. Howard.

Ross and Helen were ministers in the Assemblies of God in Benton, Kentucky. She faithfully served beside her husband as she touched many lives for the kingdom of God. She taught Sunday School, children’s church, youth, Bible study, prayer meetings, and so much more. She was a counselor to many to help them through difficult times.

Helen found joy in gardening, cooking, and sewing. She also cherished traveling the world with Ross, during their service to the U.S. Airforce and the U.S. State Department, creating treasured memories together through the years. She also worked for the State Department as a foreign service employee. During this time, they were able to minister to local missionaries and to help spread the Word of God.

She is survived by her son, Emmit Ross Howard (Rhonda) of Calvert City, Kentucky; Son, William R. Howard (Renee) of Bartow, Florida; Daughter, Kelly D. Crowley (James) of Lakeland, Florida; grandchildren, Kenneth Howard (Mialisa), Derek (Melissa) Howard, Robert Howard, Regina (Kevin) Hull, Rosilyn Howard (James) Harrell, Rachel (Andrew) Stall, James Crowley, Caleb (Elise) Crowley, 14 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Anna Fryman; husband Ross E. Howard, Sisters Betty Piercefield, Linda Fryman, and brother Billy Fryman, Great grandchild, Jeremiah Howard.

Helen will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her love of family, and her contagious laughter. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A service honoring and celebrating Helen’s life will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, May 4th at Florida National Cemetery at 6502 SW 102nd Ave., Bushnell, FL 33513.

Condolences may be sent to the family at https://www.heathfuneralchapel.com/obituaries/helen-howard.