Florence Howard

Florence Howard was a mother, sister, daughter, wife, and friend to the community. Born on October 16, 1930, to Nathaniel Moore and Sarah (Griffie) Moore, she was the fourth child of six and was raised in Nicodemus, Kansas. 

Upon leaving home, she lived in Salina, Kansas for a short time before eventually settling in western Kansas and marrying farmer David Howard on October 28, 1950. In 1956, her son Wilburt Lee Howard was born and her daughter Priscilla Kay Howard followed in 1959. Together Florence and David built a home, managing thousands of farm acres, and creating a welcoming space for family, friends, and hunters traveling through the area. 

An avid fisher and skilled crafter, Florence often took her grandchildren fishing at Webster’s Dam and at her favorite pond near her home. She regularly made handcrafted goodies for them, including dolls, pillows, and Halloween costumes. 

A gifted cook, she was known to provide meals and baked goodies, like her famous cinnamon rolls, for family, friends, and neighbors. She was born again in 1939 and volunteered to cook dishes for her home church Nicodemus First Missionary Baptist Church. A member of Ruth Chapter #48 of the Eastern Star, Florence remained involved in various community activities throughout her life, building lifelong friendships and relationships. 

After 55 years of marriage, David passed away in 2005, and Florence left farm life to return to her home in Nicodemus. Active in the small town community, she regularly volunteered at church, served on the Nicodemus Villa Housing Board, held a post on the Homecoming Committee, and was the Grand Marshall for the Homecoming parade. 

Florence transitioned peacefully on November 25, 2022, at 92 years old. She was the last of the Moore generation. She is survived by her son Wilburt (Kim), daughter Priscilla, grandchildren Jacinta (Michael), Justin (Jennifer), and Jordan (Rene), great-grandchildren, and many family and friends.