LEWISTON — Marie P. Howard, 81, of Auburn passed away peacefully Friday, March 23, at Central Maine Medical Center with her family by her side. She was born July 27, 1936, the daughter of Edgar J. and Hazel G. Cloutier. She was educated in Auburn schools. She married Robert A. Howard on Aug. 31, 1957. They were married 46 years before his passing in 2006.

Marie was a devoted member of East Auburn Baptist Church for nearly 60 years. She sang in the choir for many years and participated in several groups and ministries. She greatly enjoyed outings with her friends in the widow ministry. She will be dearly missed by her church family.

She was a crossing guard at East Auburn Elementary School for 25 years and later on was instrumental in setting up the first lending library there as well as a reading program for students. She was a longtime member of the East Auburn Ladies Auxiliary group. She loved traveling to Zepherhills, Florida, with her husband and exploring the area, especially visits to Disney World. She was a dedicated Red Sox fan.

Marie was a special person with a kind, generous heart who never met a stranger. She touched many lives in many ways and will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

She is survived by her three children: Kathy Howard of Kernersville, North Carolina; Tim Howard and wife Marti of Auburn; and Daniel Howard and wife Kristal (Sam) of Auburn. She leaves four grandchildren: Darcy Howard, David Howard, Caleb Howard and Marta Howard and special foster granddaughter Glenda Moitozo. She leaves two great-grandchildren: Haylee Farr-Howard, Brennah Howard-White, and foster great-grandchildren: Stephen and Evan Moitozo. She also leaves sister-in-law Brenda Cloutier; sister-in-law Nancy Douglass and brother-in-law Larry Douglass; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her sister: Dorothy Spiller and brothers: Edgar Cloutier Jr., Edward McGrath and John McGrath.

Marie’s family wishes to express sincere thanks and appreciation to the nurses and staff at CMMC, and for the prayers and support from her church family.

You are invited to offer your condolences and share fond memories with the family by visiting Marie’s guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.

Marie P. Howard