Harriet Ball Schools Howell, 96, of Mechanicsville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 10, 2019 with her family by her side. She was born to Lucy and John H. Ball on April 7, 1922 in Salvia, Virginia. Harriet attended Longwood College and was a Charter Member of Chamberlayne Heights Methodist Church, a member of Old Dominion Women’s Club, as well as Virginia DAR. She was preceded in death by her husband of 29 years, Clarence Beale Schools. She is survived by her husband of 35 years, James "Jim" Howell; daughter, Diane Hale (Jim); sons, Ron Schools (Sandy) and C.B. Schools (Terry); grandchildren, Chris Hale, Sara Broughton, Jake, Clay, Rachel and Jon Schools; and five great-grandchildren. Harriet loved nothing more than being with family and friends. Her tremendous zest for life was infectious to all those around her. She was a true family matriarch and will be forever missed. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 15, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Woody Funeral Home, 9271 Shady Grove Rd., Mechanicsville, Va. 23116, where a funeral service will be held on Wednesday at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Signal Hill Memorial Park.
