Michele T. Howard

Michele Theresa Howard, was born on May 5, 1955 in Washington, DC, and was the youngest of three children of the late Alfred William Speed and the late Theresa Watkins Peyton (whose birthday was also May 5th). Affectionately called "Mitt" by friends and family, she was well known for her love of wearing vibrant colors, her special love of flowers and anything the color pink.

From a family of teachers and educators, besides the color pink, Michele was a fanatic about education. Her education began in the DC Public School System, where she graduated from Anacostia Senior High in 1974. Michele went on to attend the University of Maryland, where she graduated with an Associates degree in Business Management and a Bachelor's degree in Personnel Administration and Labor Relations. Michele was very proud of her education and made a habit of informing people of her degrees.

Michele's educational background led her to the American Red Cross headquarters in Washington, DC. She worked for many years in the Personnel Department where she established many lifelong friendships.  During this period, Michele met and was swept off her feet by William Gregory Howard; the two were later married in 1976 and moved to Maryland. Michele and William had two sons: Christopher Gregory and Britt Stefan. Michele was a devoted stay-at-home mom during the formative years of her sons’ life.

Michele returned to the workforce in 1992, following her separation and later divorce. Michele obtained a position with the Division of Employment & Training in the State of Maryland's Department of Labor, Licensing & Regulation. Michele's new position allowed her to work directly with people facilitating their own re-entry into the job market, which became her passion in life until she was called home on February 16, 2022.

Michele is loved and survived by her two sons: Christopher Howard of Crofton, MD, and Britt Howard (wife Samantha) of Upper Marlboro, MD. Michele is further survived by her brother-in-law Charles Steward, her two nephews: Sheldon Steward of Baltimore, MD, Rendall Steward of Upper Marlboro, MD, her many grandchildren: Emma, Elizabeth, Dimas, and Delia, and a host of relatives and many friends.

Memorial Services are being held at Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory, P.A – 1411 Annapolis Road Odenton, MD 21113 on Saturday, March 12, 2022, led by Minister Andrew Hall Sr.