She was born in Akron in 1932 to Otis and Lena Williams. She studied music at The University of Akron earning a Bachelor’s degree and later earned a Master’s degree in music from Kent State University. LaRue was a lifelong singer, pianist, teacher, and composer.
LaRue was preceded in death by her husband, William James Howard, and daughter, Cathy Howard-Lindemann. She is survived by her sons, Reginald Howard and Steven Howard, daughter-in-law, Sandra Howard, as well as her grandchildren, Carrianne Mance, Tianna Howard, Taylor Howard-Parkman, Steven Howard, Jr., Savannah Howard and great-grandchildren, Samson Howard and Adia Howard.
A memorial service will be held at The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany in Houston, Texas on July 6, 2024 at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, donations to MD Anderson Blanton- Davis Ovarian Cancer Research or the LaRue Howard Music Scholarship Fund (via Epiphany Church) would be appreciated.
