Mary Frances "Frankie" Howard

Mary Frances “Frankie” Howard (80) died March 29th, 2024, after a decades long battle with lupus and lung disease.

She was born December 23, 1943, to Amos Edge Howard and Irene McCall Howard in Gainesville, Florida. She grew up in nearby Dukes, with countless family and friends. Her childhood was spent primarily outdoors, playing with her beloved animals. She held a special place in her heart for dogs.

Frankie graduated from Edgewater High School in 1961. She managed Howard Auto Parts when her father became ill, before graduating with a nursing degree from Lake City Community College.

Upon moving to St. Simons Island, Georgia, she became active in the Daughters of the American Revolution, and enjoyed learning about her family history.

Frankie was excellent at keeping in touch with her extended family. She was a frequent face at family events. She would so thoughtfully send cards, family photos, and recipes to her nieces, nephews, and cousins. If she ever caught you on the phone, you knew to settle in for what was sure to be an hour-long conversation.

Frankie’s feisty personality and ability to “tell it like it is” left a mark on everyone she met. She will be missed, but we are comforted to know we will see her again one day.

Mary Frances is preceded in death by her parents, her brother Canova Howard, nephew Charles Howard, and great nephew Chuck Howard.

She is survived by her daughter Aimee Howard Cress of Rincon, GA, sister-in-law Shirley Howard of Lake Butler, Florida; nephews Andy Howard (Gigi), John Carl (Mel), and David Howard all of Lake Butler, Florida, and dear friends Wanell Lee of Lake Butler, Florida and Paula Morge of Deland, Florida.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hospice Savannah, or Harmony Freewill Baptist Church in Lake Butler, Florida.