Shirley W (Wunder) Howell

Shirley Ann Howell

Newark - Shirley Ann (Wunder) Howell passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, at 5:06 a.m. She was warmly welcomed into heaven by the loving arms of her late husband of 53 years, Lloyd Howell. Lloyd was such a calm, steady presence, while she was energetic and feisty. Together they complemented each other beautifully with an unbreakable bond guided by love and faith. After 14 years apart, there is true comfort in knowing they are reunited in eternal peace.

Born and raised in Lyons, New York to Fred and Mable (Kaiser) Wunder, Shirley carried her small-town spirit with her throughout her life. While she spent time early on working at Garlock, her true purpose was found at home where she dedicated herself fully to being a mother and, later, a deeply involved and loving grandmother. Caring for others wasn't just something she did; it was who she was, a reflection of the grace and love she carried within her.

She found her joy in life's simplicity, desiring meaningful moments over material possessions. She adored tending to her flowers and garden, cooking for family, spending time on the golf course, long conversations, and of course, keeping track of numbers like 11:11 with a fascination that never faded. There was a rhythm to the way she lived, grounded in routine, care, and a deep appreciation for the blessings in everyday life.

Shirley was many things all at once: stubborn, quirky, strong, and unapologetically opinionated. She stood her ground, spoke her mind, and loved in her own steady, enduring way. Those who knew her best understood that beneath that complex exterior was a deep well of care, commitment, and worry, especially when it came to her family. She never met a stranger and could talk to anyone, offering a memorable connection in even the briefest encounters.

Shirley will be remembered by her children, Jack Howell, Andrew (Jackie) Howell, Julie (Julius Coletta) Howell, Matthew (Kimberly) Howell, and Paul Howell; her grandchildren, Joshua (Kelli), Jacob (Samantha), Jack Brian, Luke, Samantha, Jenna (Cameron), Emily (Peter), Sarah (Matt), Gwendolyn, Annie (Nick), Connor, and Cate; her great-grandchildren, Bryce, Aiden, Lyam Burdett, Waylon Jacob, and Amelia Paige; her sister, Alice Fox; her sister-in-law, Janet Wunder; and several nieces and nephews.

Shirley was predeceased by her loving husband, Lloyd Burdett in 2012; a sister, Doris (Bob) Smith; and a brother, Harold Wunder.

Her grandchildren were among her greatest joys, and she was a constant, dependable presence in their early lives, offering not just care, but stability, guidance, and a love that will live on in them. Shirley will be remembered not for grand gestures, but for the consistent, everyday love she gave so freely - the kind that shapes lives and leaves a lasting imprint on the soul.

A private ceremony to honor Shirley's memory will be held on Saturday, April 4th at 2pm. May God forever hold her in the palm of his hand.

Please consider making a donation to BrightFocus Foundation in honor of Shirley's memory.  Direct link to donate: https://donate.brightfocus.org/adr/fy26-2601-adr-control

Please write a memory or condolence to the family by visiting
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