Loretta Joyce Howell

Loretta J. Howell went to be with the lord on March 25, 2024 at Allegheny General Hospital at the age of 82. Loretta was born December 16,1941 in New Kensington, PA to the late Emmit and Lillian (Walker) Lewis. Loretta graduated in 1959 in the New Kensington School District where she broke the color barrier as the first black majorette. What’s more, Loretta was the first black secretary at Alcoa Aluminum Co. in New Kensington, PA. Loretta retired from GE where she worked as an administrator. She was a faithful member of Shiloh Baptist Church in Brackenridge, PA where she was a Deacon. Loretta enjoyed spending time with her family, bowling where she got a 298, reading scriptures and relaxing on her porch under the Sun.

Loretta is survived in death by her husband of 60 years Rev. Chester T. Howell, her 3 children Tracey L. Mack, of Arnold, Jennifer L. Howell, of Upper Darby and Hunter Lee Howell, II, of Pittsburgh; her grandchildren Brittany N. Mack, Kayla Raddick, Alexandria Raddick, Olivia N. Howell, Hannah L. Howell, Sophia C. Howell and Ketu S. Howell; great grandson Amiyr M. Mack, and a host of other relatives.

Relatives and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on Friday, April 5th 2024, from 5-8 PM at Brackenridge American Legion Post 226, 845 E First Avenue, Brackenridge, PA. In honor of Loretta, we ask that everyone incorporate red in their attire. Everyone knows that was her absolute FAVORITE color.

Also, a Memorial Service for Loretta will be held at Shiloh Baptist Church, 1004 9th Avenue, Brackenridge, PA, Sunday, April 7, 2024 during the 11 AM service. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Loretta Howell to The Day School at The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh to honor Loretta Howell’s commitment to the amazing kids at The Children’s Institute, please visit www.amazingkids.org/giving or send a check to 1405 Shady Ave., Pgh., PA 15217 made payable to the “Children’s Institute Foundation”, noting The Day School in the memo line. Alternatively, donations to Shiloh Baptist Church, 1004 9^th Ave, Brackenridge, PA 15014 are also welcomed.  

Arrangements by Duster Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. 347 E 10^th Ave, Tarentum,724-224-1526.VISIT: dusterfh.com