Dorcas Fay Howard

     Dorcas Fay Howard, 86, of Semmes Alabama passed away on January 31, 2025. Born December 8, 1938, in Wayne County, Mississippi, to the late Reverend W.B. Rigney and Lou Betty Rigney. She was the middle child of eight brothers and sisters, all of whom has preceded her in departing from this life as well as her husband and the love of her life, James Harvey Howard who passed January 15, 2021.

    She is survived by her children, Renee' (Rusty) Gramiak; Keelan (Sheryl) Howard; three grandchildren, four great grandchildren, and countless extended family and friends.

    Of the many challenges and hardships mom faced in life, most notable are polio (contracted at age 2) and post-polio syndrome (later in life), 1968 car accident in which she was told by doctors she would likely never walk again, but...she not only walked.... she learned to play piano and drive again. A living testament to the mercy and power of God as well as her unyielding perseverance. She endured these challenges with grace. Often, she would say she was our #1 fan...and indeed...she was. We will miss her encouragement and cheerful demeanor.

    Our mother's life is perhaps best described as a woman of Godly character whose heart was full of compassion toward others, an attitude of perseverance, a fierce determination to trust God and an unwavering confidence in the love of Jesus.

    Today, her healing is complete as she is basking in the loving embrace of her Savior with joy unspeakable joy!

    A visitation will be held Thursday February 6, 2025, at Valhalla Memorial Funeral Home from 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. followed by a chapel service at 1:30 p.m. Interment will be at Valhalla Memorial Gardens.