Mary E (Howell) Friend

Mary E. Friend, 90 passed away Thursday, January 25, 2024 at The Inn at Glenellen after a multi-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Mary was born in Zanesville, OH to her parents, Harry and Mayme Short Howell on August 8, 1933. She graduated from South High School in 1951 and from Mount Union College in 1954 with a degree in teaching. Mary taught in Parma for a year and in Boardman for 5 years.  She married James L. “Sonny” Friend on June 18, 1955, and together they have two children.

Mary was an active member of her church for 60 years and was a longtime volunteer for the American Cancer Society, being recognized as Volunteer of the Year for her efforts coordinating rides for the Road to Recovery program. She was most happy spending time with family and gardening her flowers and herbs.

Mary is survived by her husband of 68 years; her children, Jennifer (Tim) Jamison and Robert H. (Lisa) Friend; her five grandchildren, Heather (Tim) Bauman, Tim (Dayna) Jamison, Samantha (Brandon) Pease, Dr. Amanda Friend, Erin Friend; her three great grandchildren, Emily and Jack Bauman and Hannah Pease.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Martha Howell.

In remembrance of Mary’s life, the family asks that charitable donations be made to either Boardman United Methodist Church, Alzheimer’s Association or Hospice.

A private funeral service with immediate family will be held at 10am on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Boardman United Methodist Church.

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