Alberta Howell

Alberta Howell, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2024. Born on September 21, 1932 in Newnan, Georgia, Mother Alberta’s (better known as Bert) life was a testament to faith, love of family, and her church.

Raised in Anniston, Alabama, she graduated from Cobb High School and attended Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. There she developed into a beautiful and elegant young woman. During her time at Cobb High School, she began a friendship with Earnest Cleveland Howell. Earnest was later to attend Morehouse College. Earnest and Alberta later married and resided in Anniston, Alabama. Their journey together led them to move to Cleveland, Ohio where they raised one son and three daughters.

Alberta, a hard-working person who took several jobs in her life time to help to raise and support her family alongside her husband, always wanted to work and have beautiful things for her family. Her life represented class and quality.

While living in Cleveland, she became a member of Hayes Temple C.O.G.I.C. for many years. Sometime later, she transitioned to Cuyahoga Faith Center where her godson, Hal T. Lastery, III, began his ministry. There, at CFC, she served on the Mother’s Board and faithfully served in other areas, as requested. Alberta delighted in serving, so much so that she faithfully followed our Lord’s command to “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations”. Whoever she encountered was invited to come and to worship and know Christ at “her” church; she loved her pastor and church. Her CFC family respected and looked to her for guidance and love.

Mother Alberta leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness. She is survived by a brother, Eddie Mark (Ella) Herndon; three daughters, Bridget (Lawrence) Watson, Yasmine Howell, Robin (Eugene) Howell-Haynesworth; grandchildren Erica Hall, Miguel Howell, and Spencer Howell; great-grandchildren David Hall, Briana Badley, Christopher Badley, Rasheed Badley, and Marley Watson; a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Earnest Cleveland Howell, son, Earnest Devereaux Howell, father, Jodie M. Herndon, mother, Lena Mae Herndon, sister, Callie (David) Satcher, and brother, Albert (Sarah) Herndon.

Mother Alberta Howell’s spirit and generous heart left a life-long impression on those who loved her and her church family. She will be truly missed.