Kathryn A Howland

Kathryn A. Howland (Nichols), 73, of Ashland, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer. She was born on December 31, 1952, in Framingham, Massachusetts to the late John and Effie (Christman) Nichols of Framingham.

Kathy worked as a Health Aid in the Framingham and Natick area before her retirement.

Moving through life at her own pace and on her own terms, Kathy was a small woman with a large personality. She was fiercely independent and unapologetically herself. Kathy loved to play cards, and if you ask, she never lost a good hand. Scat!

Only those closest to her knew and understood her love language. She spent most days playing cards, going to bingo, scratching her tickets, or relaxing with her coffee and best friend Mary Jane.

Kathy cherished her circle of friends, lived for her grandchildren, and valued the strong family that supported and cared for each other. She shared a love that lasted decades.

Kathy is survived by her sons, Bruce Howland and wife Darcy, Raymond Howland Jr, and James Nichols; her daughter-in-law, Lisa Howland; her sister, Terry Sturgeon and husband Robert; her brother David Nichols and wife Barbara; her sister-in-law Patti Nichols; her grandchildren, Kayla, Bruce Jr, John, and Matthew; as well as her beloved nieces, nephews, and cousin’s. She was preceded in death by her two brothers Gordon Nichols and Ronald Nichols.

Kathy will be remembered for the energy that she brought into the lives of those who knew her. She was a good laugh, a great friend, fun to be around - and sometimes an all-around bundle of joy. She came with a bit of chaos and craziness but her big personality was so loved by many and will forever be missed.

A celebration of life will be held in remembrance of Kathryn (Kathy) at 12PM on June 20th at her brother David’s house in Northbridge, MA.