Mrs. Valerie Gay Howell, age 72, passed from this life on Friday, January 16, 2026 at approximately 3:27 p.m. at Lima Memorial Health Systems in Lima, Ohio.

She was born on October 14, 1953 in Lima, Ohio to Lester E. Budd and Thelma P. Edwards (Lusk).  Her father preceded her in death and her mother survives in Lima, Ohio.

In 1972 she was united in holy matrimony to Mr. Clarence "Paul" Howell, he survives in Lima, Ohio.

As a gifted seamstress, Mrs. Howell owned and operated Howell Alterations.  She was a member of Grace Church Worldwide Ministries.  Mrs. Howell loved her family, music and traveling.

Besides her loving husband Clarence she leaves to cherish her precious memory several Godchildren who she loved very much.  3 brothers; Joseph E. Budd (Ember) of Socorro, New Mexico, Jaron A. Budd (Betty) of Lima, Ohio and Martin D. Edwards (Rosalind) of Elida, Ohio. 4 sisters; Leslie P. Martin (John), Peggy L. Miller of Alba, Michigan, Carla A. Dean (Gary) of Columbus, Georgia and Nina R. Gondola of Bargersville, Indiana.  A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by a 2 sisters; Carrie E. Denson and Thelma Mae Woods. A brother; Major Edwards, Jr. and a stepfather; Major Edwards, Sr.

Services will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Grace Church Worldwide Ministries with Pastor Ronald Fails, officiating.

Interment:  Memorial Park Cemetery

Services entrusted to: JONES-CLARK FUNERAL HOME, INC.

To order flowers and to offer condolences to the HOWELL Family, visit www.jonesclarkfuneralhome.com