Barbara E. (Butler) Howard

Barbara E. Howard, 89, was born on August 29, 1936, and passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025, in Center, TX.

Services for Barbara will begin with visitation on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 10 am at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 202 E Longview, Arp, Texas. Her funeral service will then start at 11 am. Interment will be at Ebenezer Cemetery in Arp, Texas immediately following the service.

From an early age Barbara demonstrated a remarkable dedication to learning. She proudly graduated as valedictorian of her high school class. Barbara was also part of the Mary Tyler Chapter of the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution and had earned the Good Citizen Award that led to her being formally recognized by President Lyndon B. Johnson. 

Barbara shared an extraordinary bond with her beloved sister and lifelong best friend, Sue. Their connection was inseparable and deeply cherished. Together, they became business partners and co-owned a women’s clothing boutique, The Whistle Stop, in Arp, Texas for 30 years. They delighted in attending market, selecting new dresses, and building something meaningful side by side.

She married the love of her life, James Weldon Howard, December 1952, and together they raised a beautiful family in Arp, Texas. They were married for 52 years. Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family was the center of her world.

Barbara endured profound loss throughout her life, including the passing of her husband in 2005, her sister in 2014, her daughter in 2015, and her son in 2016. Despite these hardships, her strength and grace never wavered.

In 2017, Barbara’s life was brightened once more when she formed a deep and joyful friendship with Anita Dawson. Anita brought laughter, companionship, and a renewed sparkle to Barbara’s eyes. Their bond was fierce and loving, and for three treasured years they were rarely apart. Together, they traveled to Branson and even rode roller coasters—Anita made Barbara fearless again. Although Anita passed away in April of 2020, her impact on Barbara’s life was immeasurable. The family is forever grateful for the love Anita shared, and they take comfort in knowing the two are reunited once again.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, R.B. Butler and Laura Butler; her brother, John; her sister, Sue Johnson; her brother-in-law, Rev. Isaac Johnson; her husband Weldon Howard, her daughter, Sheldon Donelson; and her son, Stan Howard.

She is survived by her son-in-law, Rollin Donelson of Austin. Niece, Laurie Nielsen and husband Dr. Mark Nielsen of Colorado. Cherished grandchildren: Kaysie Tatum and husband Rob of Lufkin, Cheyenne Chambliss and husband Kyle of Joaquin. Jacob Donelson and wife Kacie of Dallas and Tyler Donelson of Charlotte, NC. She also leaves behind her treasured 5 great-grandsons: Owen Tatum, Karter Tatum, George Donelson, Matthew Chambliss, and Baby Donelson on the way, who is expected in early February 2026. 

Barbara’s life was marked by intelligence, resilience, love, and unwavering devotion to family. Her legacy will live on through the generations she so dearly loved.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Jerry Raines, a longtime family friend, whose continued support, generosity, and selflessness, over many decades, brought comfort and strength to Barbara and her family.

The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to family friend, Donna Barnard, for her guidance and support during Barbara’s final moments, helping Cheyenne secure hospice care and ensuring Barbara was surrounded by comfort and compassion.

The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Harbor Hospice for their compassionate care and for ensuring Barbara’s comfort and dignity in her final moments as well as Focus Care Nursing Home and their staff in Center, TX. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Cottle Pearson Funeral Home, Overton, Texas.

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