Shirley Louise Howard

Shirley Louise Howard, 85, of Waterloo, IA, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, April 13, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on November 20, 1939, in Oxford, Mississippi, Shirley was the daughter of Lee Shelby and Clara May (Townsend) Wortham. She graduated from Waterloo East High School in 1959 and later earned her nursing degree from Hawkeye Community College.

Shirley married the love of her life, Jesters Howard, on June 17, 1961, at the historic Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Their union was a testament to love and commitment that lasted over 60 years, until Jesters' passing on July 10, 2022.

A devoted nurse, Shirley dedicated her career to caring for others at Covenant Hospital. She was a faithful member of Antioch Baptist Church for more than 60 years. She lived a life marked by quiet strength, compassion, and grace-always putting the needs of others before her own. Whether at work, at home, or in the lives of those she loved, she led with a gentle spirit and a giving heart.

Shirley had a deep love for cooking and found immense joy in preparing meals for her family and friends. Whether trying out a new recipe or perfecting a cherished family dish, her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and delicious memories. She delighted in bringing people together around the table and making everyone feel at home.

She is also preceded in death by her parents, sister, Barbara Wortham, and nephew, William Robertson.

Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication through her children, Sheneal Sheila Rockett-Howard of Milwaukee, WI, Darryl (Stefany) Howard of Davie, FL, and Angeliis (Kenny) Griffin of Dallas, TX; her memory will also be cherished by her six grandchildren, Shamika May, Raymond (Jennifer) Duplechain, Briana Duplechain, Brianna McKinnon, Daryle and Douglas Howard; four great-grandchildren: Rafael May Jr., Jacob May, Titan and Zoe Duplechain; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.

Shirley's life was marked by compassion, faith, and an unwavering commitment to her loved ones. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation & Funeral Service: Family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Antioch Baptist Church, 426 Sumner Street, Waterloo, Iowa. Funeral Service to Celebrate Shirley's life following at 11:00 a.m. Burial to take place at Garden of Memories Cemetery-Waterloo.

Locke at Tower Park is serving the family. Please visit lockefuneralservices.com to offer your condolences.