Carol Howard, of Warsaw, passed away unexpectedly at her residence on Sunday, March 24, 2024, at the age of 79.  She was affectionately known by all as simply “Granny.” She is now whole in the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
She was born on Oct. 10, 1944, in Dwale, Ky., one of nine children born to Pearl Vaughn and Wayne R. Blanton. Growing up in a large family, Carol always had someone to spend time with. At the young age of 16, she knew she was going to spend the rest of her life with a boy by the name of Earl Howard. They were married on May 3, 1961, and God gifted Carol and Earl 62 years of marriage together. They raised their three children and watched them become parents themselves. Granny LOVED spoiling her grandkids, and a hug was never far behind. She was also one to set you straight when it was needed …. and always done with love. Carol would do her best to attend as many functions and games for her grandchildren, wearing the biggest smile on her face and cheering them on.
Carol was a wonderful and proud homemaker, everything had its place and she loved to keep a clean home for her family. She always kept busy, as being “Mom” was a 24-hour job. She loved to cook and over the years she fixed many a delicious meal for her family. One never left her house without getting something to eat. Holiday dinners for her family were a feast, especially at Christmas. Her family always stated that Carol could sing like an angel. She loved music and had a great time when she was with her family and sang with her brothers and sisters.
Carol was indeed the matriarch of the family. God and family were first and foremost. She enjoyed her church family at New Hope Free Will Baptist Church in Warsaw. Carol wanted to get back to church services so badly but due to poor health she was not able to attend as much as she desired. Though not at church physically, her heart was always with Christ. There are not enough words to describe this great lady, she was a kind and gracious host, a fighter and a warrior. Carol dearly loved her family and will forever be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend to many. Her family has comfort in knowing her pain has come to an end, and she would most want to be remembered for her faith in her Savior Jesus Christ.
She leaves behind her husband, Earl Howard, Warsaw; son, Robert Howard, Warsaw; and two daughters, Sandy (Brad) Hough, Claypool; Jeni (Phil) Sand, Warsaw. Also surviving are her beloved eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and eight brothers and sisters.
Friends and family are invited to visit and celebrate Carol’s life from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 27 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw. Pastor Dave Cripe will officiate a private family funeral service and graveside. Carol will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery in Warsaw.
Memorial donations may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Online condolences may be sent through the funeral home’s website at www.redpathfruthfuneralhome.com.