Elizabeth Howell

Elizabeth Adell Howell, affectionately known as Penny, passed away on April 25, 2025, in New Braunfels, Texas, at the age of 81.

Penny was born on April 2, 1944, in Berkeley, California, to Edwin and Anna Hunt. She moved with her family to Gila Bend, Arizona at a young age and was the eldest of three siblings, growing up alongside her brother Edwin Jr. and sister Elaine.

She graduated from Gila Bend High School in 1962 and went on to Arizona State University, where she earned degrees in History and Physical Education in the summer of 1966. A few years later, she furthered her education by earning a Master's Degree in Education from Northern Arizona University.

Penny began her teaching career in Holbrook, Arizona, where her first principal was Frank Turley. While in Holbrook, she met the love of her life, John Howell. The two were married on November 1, 1968.

In the summer of 1969, Penny and John moved to Phoenix, where Penny taught in the Washington Elementary School District. They welcomed their first son, Robert (Bob), in March 1972, followed by Phillip in December 1973.

In January 1975, the family returned to holbrook so John could join the family business, Howell Electric. Penny stayed at home with her sons, while supporting John's involvement in the Holbrook Elks Lodge. She became active herself in the Lodge's woment's organization as well as the local chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional society for women educators. She also shared her love of music by playing piano and singing in the choir at the Holbrook United Methodist Church for several years.

In 1980, Penny returned to school to renew her teaching credentials and re-entered the classroom in 1982. She taught at Holbrook High School until 1987, then at Holbrook Junior High until her retirement in 2004. Penny was known for her commitment to her students and her calm, thoughtful presence both in and out of the classroom.

Outside of her professional life, Penny enjoyed reading, music and coloring with friends. She had a deep appreciation for creativity, learning, and friendship, which she passed along to those around her.

Penny is survived by her sons, Robert (Jennifer) and Phillip (Amy); her brother Edwin; her sister Elaine; her grandchildren, Emma, Nicholas, and Cara; many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Howell, and her parents, Edwin Sr. and Anna Hunt.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Holbrook Elks Lodge #2450, 714 Elkdom Ave., Holbrook, AZ, followed by interment at the Holbrook Cemetery. A luncheon for all those attending will be held at the Elks Lodge immediately following the interment.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest honoring Penny's memory through the Funeral Home's tree planing donation service (by clicking on the "Plant a Tree Link") or by donating to the Holbrook Elks Youth Scholarship Fund - causes that reflect her lifelong dedication to growth, education, and community.