Donna Howell

Donna Beard Howell

Donna was born to Ralph and Elby Beard in Eagle Pass, Texas on April 27, 1945. She was called home to be with her Lord and Savior at the age of 65 on January 18, 2011, while surrounded by her family. Donna was preceded in death by her father, Ralph Beard, Jr., and by her husband, Jim Howell. She is survived by her mother, Elby Beard; children, Tony Hale and wife Amy; Rachel Bracewell and husband Bryan; brother, Ralph Beard III and wife Brenda; nephew, Ralph Beard IV; five grandchildren, Lauren, Brooke, Garrett, Chase and Nathan; and her companion, Charles Blake.

Donna was a graduate of Eagle Pass High School, and she later attended Trinity University in San Antonio. Donna spent many years as an at-home mother before going to work for the Elgin Independent School District where she worked for 15 years before retiring in 2010. Donna was a resident of McDade since 1985.

A devout Christian, Donna laid the spiritual foundation for her children at an early age. Her relationship with God was a priority, and that was evident to those around her. She had a passion for animals. Donna trained her trick horse, Rosita, and they traveled to many different local events to perform for crowds. Donna also dressed up in costume and rode in local parades. Donna loved to laugh and to make others laugh. She enjoyed traveling, exercising, and reading. Her wardrobe depicted her personality… all sparkles and glitter.

Celebration of Life Services will be held Thursday, January 20 at 4:30 PM at the First Baptish Church in Elgin.
Burial will be in Del Rio, Texas.

The family extends very special thanks to the nursing staff at Conroe Regional Medical Center, and to the entire staff at Lighthouse Hospice in Round Rock. Words cannot express our gratitude.

Tony and Rachel also wish to express special thanks to Charles Blake, who in Donna’s final two years of life, enveloped her with love, caring and companionship.
The family asks that memorials be made to Lighthouse Hospice, 100 College Street, Round Rock, Texas 78664.