She was married to Arthur D. Howard for 52 years before his passing in 2003. Belva loved dogs and enjoyed gardening. She especially loved spending time with her grandsons and great-grandchildren.
Belva was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Arthur D. Howard; and her sisters Loretta Mills, Barbara Puett, and JoAnn Long.
She is survived by her sons, Bradford A. Howard (Cheryl) and Bryan D. Howard (Gale); grandsons, Nikolas A. Howard, Joshua D. Howard, Jared R. Howard, and Jacob A. Howard; 7 great-grandchildren; her sister, Juanita Vessar; brother, Leland Patterson; and many nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held at 2 PM on Monday, October 19, at Floral Hills East Memorial Gardens, 25203 E US Hwy 50, Lees Summit, MO 64086. Family will visit with guests one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wayside Waifs https://secure.waysidewaifs.org/site/Donation or American Cancer Society https://donate3.cancer.org/