Elizabeth A. (Davis) Howard

Elizabeth Howard, of Reading, MA passed away peacefully on June 11, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on February 6, 1943 in Brooklyn, NY, to Donald and Phyllis Davis. Betty lived a life defined by laughter, quiet strength, and a deep devotion to the people she loved.

A lifelong resident of Reading, Betty graduated from Reading Memorial High School, Class of 1960. This is where she met her forever high-school sweetheart, Bradford Howard. The cheerleader and football player were right out of 1950’s central casting, and were married in February of 1965.

After beginning her career working for the Air Force at Hanscom Air Field, Betty found her calling working for the school system in Reading – mainly with Joshua Eaton Elementary School. Her paths crossed with many future friends of her daughter Kristine and son Rob, and her kindness impacted nearly 3 decades of students.

Betty had a passion for reading and knitting. Her handmaid Holiday Stockings adorn dozens of family and friends’ homes each year.

In their 39 years of marriage, Betty and Brad shared much happiness, laughter, and of course their share of challenges. Perhaps none more challenging than when Brad was diagnosed with ALS, and left us in 2004.

Despite this grief, Betty was blessed to have a new passion that would be the positive driver for the rest of her life. Nothing brought her more joy than the time she spent with her four grandchildren. Whether she was cheering them on, sharing recipes, playing games or just laughing at their crazy stories, Betty treasured every moment. Her warmth, attention, and humor made her a steady, loving presence in their lives.

Betty is survived by her daughter Kristine E. Connor and her husband Thomas of Hudson, MA, and son Robert F. Howard and his wife Susan of North Andover, MA. Betty was the loving grandmother of Brad & Rachele Connor and Drew & Colin Howard, who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

Betty is also survived by her brother Robert Davis and his wife Kathy of Ponte Vedra, FL, and her sister-in-law Gail Doherty of Cumming, GA. She also is survived by many nieces, nephews and friends who will miss her dearly.

Betty will be having a private ceremony at her final resting place at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park in Peabody, MA. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any Memorial Contributions may be made in her memory to the ALS Association, 1919 University Ave W, Suite 175, St. Paul, MN 55104 or online at ALS Association; or to the Sawtelle Family Hospice House, 320 Haverhill Street, Reading, MA 01867.