Ruth Elizabeth Howell

Born on March 13, 1941, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and raised in Muskegon, Ruth was the cherished daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Alexander.

Above all else, Ruth had a huge love for Jesus Christ. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, and through her grace, kindness, and devotion, she brought many others to that faith over the years.

Her remarkable musical talents were a natural extension of her spiritual devotion. As a child, she was awarded a prestigious scholarship to Interlochen for singing, though she ultimately chose to attend Hope College to study music. Her beautiful voice became a staple of community and worship, as she frequently performed at churches throughout West Michigan.

Professionally, Ruth possessed a compassionate heart and a keen eye for beauty. She dedicated herself to caring for others as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Pine Rest and later expressed her creative talents as an interior designer at Ethan Allen. Ruth’s life was also defined by deep family connections and a spirit of adventure.

She is survived by her loving husband, Daniel Howell, whom she married on December 26, 2001. Together, they built a wonderful life, living in Grandville and Leighton Lakes (Wayland), Michigan. Embracing their retirement years, Ruth and Dan bought a motorhome and traveled across the country, making unforgettable memories before eventually settling down under the warm sun in Naples, Florida and finally coming back home to Grand Rapids, MI (Waterford Place) in 2023.

In addition to being survived by her husband, Daniel Howell, she is survived by her sister-in-law, Esther Ross and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jim and Faye Howell. She was a devoted mother to her two sons Craig West and Rich Thomas and her four stepchildren Matt Howell, Joan Slonka, Janelle Coyne, and Laura Howell. She took immense pride in being a grandmother to her 14 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

Ruth’s unwavering faith, melodic spirit, adventurous heart, and dedication to her family will be dearly missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Celebration of Ruth’s life will be held 3 p.m. Saturday, August 8, 2026 at Waterford Place, 1725 Port Sheldon St., Jenison, MI 49428 in the Multipurpose Room (enter through Main Entrance and Reception will direct you). Lunch will be provided.

The family is asking for donations in lieu of flowers to be made to Mission India https://missionindia.org/ways-to-give/?referral=BTN2607 or PO Box 141312 Grand Rapids, MI 49514-1312.