Merlyn E. Howell, 78

Merlyn E. Howell, 78, of Ashland passed away Friday evening, April 21, 2017 in University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center.

She was born March 16, 1939 in Ashland to the late Holland and Viola (nee Schuck) Lucas.

Merlyn graduated from Ashland High School, Class of 1957. She went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree of Education from Ashland College in 1961.

She married Lawrence D. Howell on June 28, 1964.

Merlyn retired after more than 35 years of teaching from Mansfield City Schools and worked previously at Madison.

She was a devoted member of Stone Lutheran Church where she played the organ and taught both Sunday School Class and Vacation Bible School. Merlyn enjoyed raising and showing horses throughout her life. She loved gardening, baking, and camping with her husband and son.

Merlyn is survived by her husband of 52 years, Lawrence “Larry” Howell of Ashland; a loving son, Kevin Howell of Ashland; her sister, Carolyn (Don) Wagner of Ashland; her canine companion, Gabby; and 18 nieces and nephews.

Merlyn is preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services will be held, Thursday, April 27, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in the Stone Evangelical Lutheran Church, 940 County Road 1754, Ashland, Ohio 44805 with Reverend Rebecca Rossow officiating. Interment will be in the Ashland Cemetery. Friends may call prior to the service from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Stone Evangelical Lutheran Church, 940 County Road 1754, Ashland, Ohio 44805.

For those who may not be able to attend, online condolences may be shared on the funeral home’s website at denbowfh.com.

Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home & Crematory is handling the arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Merlyn E. Howell, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.