9-15-1935 to 9-28-2015

“When a loved one becomes a memory, a memory becomes a treasure. Treasure the memories.”

Rita Carol Howell, 80, of Port Neches, Texas died Monday, September 28, 2015 at Christus Dubuis Hospital in Beaumont, Texas surrounded by her loving family.
Rita was born September 15, 1935 in Port Arthur, Texas to Otis Gulledge and Eunice Yarbrough Gulledge.   She was a lifelong resident of this area and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and Port Arthur College.  Rita retired from Jefferson County Clerk’s office and was a member of The United Methodist Temple, Wesley Sunday School Class, and a life member of Sertoma.
Rita enjoyed welcoming her family and many friends into her home as well as the house at Crystal Beach.  Above all “Nannie’s” pride and joy were her precious grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She touched the lives of so many with her grace and charm.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Joe Howell.
Surviving relatives include her daughters, Carol Ann Doty of Port Neches, Texas; Diane Howell Shaver and husband, Don of Beaumont, Texas; sons, Kurt Riley, Sr. of Port Arthur, Texas; Dr. Scott W. Howell and wife, Katie of Corpus Christi, Texas; sister, Jackie Gulledge Zweiger of Monahans, Texas; grandchildren, Ashton Marchand (Dr. Nathan), Brett Doty, Allison Doty, Brennan Doty, Kurt Riley, Jr., Josh Riley, Scott Allen Shaver (Michael), Claire Shaver Day (Adam), Darrel Blake Shaver (Taylor), Corrie Elise Howell, Travis Brownrigg Howell, Luke Thomas Howell, great- grandchildren, Paige Brooklyn Marchand, Mason Grant Marchand, Sloane Margaret Shaver, and Dylan Claire Day.
We, the family, wish to express our great appreciation to the many friends, family and healthcare providers who have continually lifted us up in prayer.
Funeral services will be held Friday, October 2, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Temple in Port Arthur, Texas with Judge Jeff Branick officiating.  Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Beaumont.
Visitation for family and friends will be from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, October 1, 2015 at Levingston Funeral Home in Port Neches.
Memorial contributions may be made to the United Methodist Temple, 4101 Hwy 73, Port Arthur, Texas 77642 or charity of your choice.