Ruth Howell

Ruth Laurene Howell, 92, died on September 5, 2024, at her home in Hartwell following a long illness.

Laurene was born and raised in Michigan, and was the daughter of Michael and Mary DePeal. She lived all over the United States before retiring to Hartwell, Georgia some 50 years ago.

Laurene is survived by her three children. They include; Michael Girard of Hartwell, Michelle (Rick) Tennis of Fenton, Michigan and Michele Howell Dipert of Hartwell. Her son, Michael Girard was her primary caretaker during her illness.

She was blessed to have two grandsons – Matthew (Amy) Tennis and Nathan (Alicia) Tennis of Fenton, Michigan. She had four great-grandchildren; Daniel, Zachary, Leilani and Kierra Tennis.

Laurene was close her sisters-in-law, Arleen DePeal and Judy DePeal and her loving nieces and nephews in Georgia and Michigan. 

She worked as an interior designer, a ceramic artist and helped co-ordinate the Sacred Heart Catholic Church members in creating the stained-glass windows for the church in Hartwell, Georgia. Laurene loved cooking and hosting dinners for friends, and she was active in “Sweet Adelines” choir group for many years.

Throughout her life, she forged many friendships that lasted a lifetime. She also enjoyed hosting bridge parties for the “Newcomers Club” in her home. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Laurene wished to be cremated. She will be interned at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.

On-line condolences and words of comfort may be left for the family by visiting www.coileandhallfd.com .

Services entrusted to Coile and Hall Funeral Directors and Crematory, 333 E. Johnson Street in Hartwell.