Connie Howell

Herrin- Constance D. “Connie” Howell, 73, of Herrin, passed away at 12:05 AM, Saturday, November 23, 2013 at Herrin Hospital. Connie was born on May 28, 1940 in Herrin to Henry and Aileen (Smith) Rash.  She married Robert Leigh Howell on August 14, 1959 in Marion.  He preceded her in death on Valentine’s Day 2006. Although she was a homemaker with five children, Connie previously worked at Maytag, the Fiberglass Plant, and Smoler Brothers all in Herrin. She was a direct and sassy lady who loved to dance and bake cakes and gingerbread houses for the classrooms at Herrin Elementary School.  She was a selfless woman who put the needs of her children and grandchildren before hers.  She was also a private woman who enjoyed playing pinochle with her family, solving puzzles and watching “Gunsmoke” and Humphrey Bogart Movies.  She was a frugal cook who could make a pound of hamburger into just about anything and would come up with unique recipes from different sources. Survivors include- Four daughters- Kimberly Plooster and husband Troy of Florida Christine Howell of Herrin Delores Spellman and husband Matthew of Olathe, KS Laura Robles and husband Eddie of Virginia Beach, VA Son- Brett Howell and five children of Charleroi, PA 15 Grandchildren: Sal, Michael and Rocky Costello Amanda Yates Erica and Gregory Wikel Katelynn and Kristyn Moreno Emily Jared and Justin Robles Great granddaughter- Maria Costello Sister- Sue Tanner and husband Tom of Herrin She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and sister- Carolyn Brown. Private memorial services will be held at a later date at Blairsville Cemetery.  Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin assisted the family with memorial arrangements. Memorial donations are suggested to the American Cancer Society and will be accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home/ 201 S. 13^th St/ Herrin, IL  62948.  For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com.