M. Elaine Howard

Murl Elaine Jackson Howard lived a wonderful long life full of grand memories and triumphs over hardships before her passing with her family at her side on February 5, 2023. Born on July 5, 1935 in Shreveport, Louisiana, Little Murl who called herself “Elaine” instead, was the beautiful daughter of Dorothy Conly Jackson and Murlin Lee (Jack) Jackson, who raised a strong family during war times and drive-in movies. She was blessed to have a baby sister named Julie. The two remained close throughout their lives as Julie always called her “Sissy.” Elaine attended school in Shreveport, and graduated from Lamar High School in Houston.  She attended Centenary College where she met and married Graham Rogers. They gave birth to a daughter named Rene and son named Graham Jr. She combined motherhood with a career and prided herself as a hard working woman of her era. She took on several professions throughout her life including becoming a paralegal, kindergarten teacher, public relations consultant, notary and real estate agent, writer and professional test administrator, and substitute teacher. During these years, she also met many life obstacles including divorce, corporate closures, and financial burdens in which she met with a steadfast, resilient attitude. She believed, “home and family are the most important and found something good in everyone.” Elaine believed 5 was her lucky number. A few years after a “most wonderful meeting” on January 8, 1985, she remarried Kenneth James Howard and proceeded to spend the next 29 years of life together. They retired, having “some fun years” where they participated in many community organizations and events. They traveled, canoed, danced, played tennis, performed in the German Marching Band, Chamber of Singers, the Senior Olympics, went to church and visited family and friends. All while caring for their aging parents. Together they continually worked on the farm mowing, hauling, building and repairing. Making the most of their downtime. Elaine was excited to become an aunt to Loren, Michele and Jared Sandifer who called her “Aunt Rain.” Then they were blessed to become grandparents and cared for their first grandson Corwin Rogers. Then her daughter gave birth to a girl named Alexandra Meachum. They called her “Mother.” She spent many special years living with her husband, children, and grandchildren living on their family farm in Caddo Parish where they made countless memories. She spent her life showing compassion to others, being a pillar of strength for her family, and keeping a strong faith in God. She also loved to write, read, and laugh. Her final years were spent in peace under the care of her beloved grandchildren who she cherished so much. The three of them always made quite the team. Elaine deeply loved her family and her life. She tells us “it’s hard to say goodbye but what a glorious opportunity I have been given to have a life with each of you.” She was deeply loved in return with her family promising to honor her enduring memory. Her grandchildren send special regards to Centerwell Home Health for their commitment to her care. Elaine leaves us with a lifetime of beautiful moments to always remember and said, “I love you and love sharing a love with you.”