Irma Lane Howell

Born on June 3, 1948, in Edgecombe County, North Carolina, Irma was the beloved daughter of Josephine Pittman Kearney and Benjamin Franklin Kearney, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Stanley E. Pittman, and her granddaughter, Remi J. Howell.

A proud graduate of Conetoe High School, Irma achieved the honor of salutatorian, a reflection of her determination and intelligence. Following graduation, she moved to New York to pursue a career in business administration. In 1968, she married Walter Leon Howell Sr. in the Washington, D.C./Maryland area. Together, they built a loving home and lasting legacy.

Irma dedicated many years of service to her career, ultimately retiring from AT&T, where she was deeply respected for her professionalism, reliability, and commitment. In April 2003, she joined the City of Bowie Government where she faithfully served for more than 17 years. Known as a true treasure among her colleagues, she was admired not only for her strong work ethic but also for her kindness and genuine compassion for others. In recognition of her service, she was honored by the Prince George’s County Police Chiefs’ Association with a Civilian of the Year nomination in 2010, awarded through the Bowie Police Department. These acknowledgments are only a small token of the many accomplishments Irma achieved throughout her life, as her impact extended far beyond awards and titles.

Throughout her life, Irma was admired for her resilience, warmth, and unwavering love for her family. She found joy in cooking large family meals, traveling, and scratching off lottery tickets—simple pleasures that brought her laughter and contentment. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, and her presence was a constant source of comfort and light.

Irma is survived by her devoted husband, Walter Leon Howell Sr.; her loving children Tony O’Brien Kearney (Debra), Terri Inez Howell, and Walter Leon Howell Jr.; her siblings James Carlton Kearney Sr., William “Billy” Lawrence, Daisy Clarke, and Jean Josephine White; her beloved grandchildren Rashar McFail, Treasor McNair, Taron Ricks, Myisha Martin, Shydesha Kearney, and Bikembe Kearney; and her precious great-grandchildren London Rice, Omari Rice, Ri’kiya Howell, Demi McFail, Bentlee McFail, Jurnee McFail, Mason Martin, Julian Ricks, Maleah Broward, Donivan Singletary, and Dallas Singletary. She also leaves behind a host of extended family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Her legacy of love, strength, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A visitation for Irma will be held Friday, September 5, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Robert E. Evans Funeral Home, 16000 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD 20715, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 PM.