Mable Howard

Mable Howard peacefully departed this world on Sunday, November 3, 2024, leaving behind a legacy rich in love, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family, faith, and community. Born on March 6, 1928, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Mable was the cherished first daughter of Adeline Reed Howard and Samuel Howard, Jr. Growing up in the Lower Ninth Ward, she was surrounded by the warmth of her extended family, where her paternal grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins were her foundation. Though Mable faced the profound loss of her mother at a young age, the nurturing presence of her Aunt Sarah Reed Drew, her paternal grandparents, Samuel Howard Sr. and Lumby Calvin Howard, as well as close relatives and family in Port Gibson, Mississippi, stepped in to help her father care for her and her sister, Doris. They offered her the strength and love that would later define her own giving spirit. Mable’s drive and ambition led her to Soule Business College, where she earned her business certificate before beginning her career at Rex "The Sewing Factory" and New Orleans Public School System in Food Service for over 30 years. In her early years, she was formerly married to Clarence Harris, and together they welcomed their son, Bruce Harris. Family remained at the heart of Mable’s life; she was a devoted mother to Bruce and a loving aunt to LaDon, Harold, Jr. "Tootsie," and Pamela. For over 50 years, Mable was a dedicated member of St. David Roman Catholic Church in the Lower Ninth Ward where her faith continued to blossom. She was honored by the congregation as the church's eldest member, a title that came with immense respect and admiration from those who saw her faith as a guiding light. As a committed member of the Knights of Peter Claver, the Holy Cross Neighborhood Association, Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club - Diamond Cutters Krewe Member, and the Silver Star Benevolent Association, Mable gave generously of her time, hosting family birthday parties and annual Night Out Against Crime gatherings at her home to foster community spirit and solidarity. Mable’s entrepreneurial spirit found its true expression in her passion for sewing, leading her to create Mable’s Handcraft Dolls. For over 40 years, she shared her love for New Orleans with the world, selling her handmade dolls and cultural items in The New Orleans French Market. Recognized as the oldest vendor by former Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungessor, Mable took immense pride in sharing the rich heritage of her beloved city, delighting visitors with her stories and educating them on the vibrant traditions of New Orleans. She touched countless lives with her art, her words, her bold personality and her kindness, embodying the spirit of New Orleans in all she did. Preceded in death by her parents, Adeline Reed Howard and Samuel Howard, Jr.; her beloved aunt and surrogate mother, Sarah Reed Drew; her sister, Doris Kelly; and nephew, Harold “Tootsie” Kelly, Jr., Mable’s legacy lives on through those she leaves behind. Her memory is cherished by her son, Bruce Harris (Alita); her grandchildren, Dwayne Hamilton (Erica), Essence Harris Banks (Nick), and Brunisha Jones; her great-grandchildren, Dwayne Gray, Erica Gray, Eric Gray, David Gray, Jaden Banks, Connor Banks, and Jasai Jones and great-great grandchild Victor Gray. She also leaves behind her nieces, LaDon Kelly and Pamela Scott (John); her great-nieces, Mariel Foy and Joi Scott; her great-great nephew, Julien Baugh; her beloved cousins, Audrey Howard Joseph and Rosa Mary Reed; and a host of extended family, dear friends, Holy Cross neighbors, and her cherished church community. Mable’s life will be celebrated with a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, November 15, 2024, at St. David Roman Catholic Church, 5617 St. Claude Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70117, led by The Very Reverend Oswald Pierre-Jules, SSJ. Visitation begins at 10:00 a.m., with a Rosary to follow. Interment will be at Fazendeville Ellen Cemetery, 303 E. Prosper St., Chalmette, LA 70043. Arrangements are entrusted to Duplain W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave, New Orleans, LA 70125. Family and friends are invited to share their memories and condolences with the family at www.rhodesfuneral.com. May we honor Mable’s memory by carrying forward her love, kindness, and the deep joy she brought to each life she touched. Her legacy is a testament to a life filled with grace, purpose, and endless love.