Lynda Waters Howell

Lynda Merle Waters Howell, of Pascagoula, Mississippi, passed away on Tuesday, March 31,2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 83 years old.

Born on November 26, 1942, in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Lynda was the beloved daughter of Fred W. Waters and Eva Mae Tillman Waters. She was raised in Pascagoula in a home grounded in faith, family, and community—values that remained central throughout her life.

A lifelong member of St. John’s Episcopal Church, Lynda’s faith was the foundation of her life. She faithfully served her church in many capacities over the years, including serving on the vestry and teaching Sunday school. She cherished her time in Bible study, drawing strength and fellowship from her church family.

Lynda was also active in the Order of the Eastern Star and the Zonta Club of Pascagoula, where she formed lasting friendships and contributed meaningfully to the civic and charitable life of her community.

She had a love for history and treasured the beauty of the past, especially through her collection of Depression-era glassware and antiques. She also enjoyed researching genealogy, taking great interest in preserving her family’s heritage and stories for future generations.

On October 14, 1961, she married the love of her life, Jerry Wayne Howell Sr., at St. John’s Episcopal Church. Together they built a life centered on faith, commitment, and love for their family.

She was a devoted mother to Jerry Wayne Howell Jr. (Carolyn “Kay”), Paul Wesley Howell, and Kellie Lane Crowder (Steve). Her greatest joy was her family, and she cherished her role as mother and grandmother.

She was a loving grandmother to Alexis Howell, Anna Kate Pettis, Baillie Pettis, and Jarrett Pettis, each of whom brought her immeasurable pride and joy.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Wayne Howell Sr.; her parents, Fred W. Waters and Eva Mae Tillman Waters; and her sister, Julia (“Judy”) Williamson.

She is survived by her children and their families; her grandchildren; her brothers, Fred (“Freddie”) Waters and Jeff Waters; and extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Visitation will be held Sunday April 5, 2026 at O'Bryant-O'Keefe Funeral Home in Pascagoula from 6-8pm. Funeral Service will be held on Monday April 6, 2026 at 11:00 am at St John's Episcopal Church  with interment to follow at Biloxi National Cemetery at 1:30PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Episcopal Church, Pascagoula, or a charity of the family’s choice.

Her life was a testament to faith, family devotion, and a deep appreciation for heritage and tradition.

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