Virginia ‘Cookie’ L. Howard

Virginia was born on October 11, 1945, in Danforth, Mich., the daughter of Leonard and Geraldine Gardiner. She was soon dubbed “Cookie” by her family, and that name stuck throughout her life. She was raised in Escanaba, and graduated from Escanaba High School in 1963.

In 1964, Cookie was united in marriage to Lewis Howard and together they shared many wonderful years. She and Lewis owned and operated Lew’s Southside in Escanaba for many years. She later became a dedicated pastor’s wife and church secretary. Cookie loved cats, her friends at Drifter’s, and keeping up with current events. She cherished time spent with her grandchildren and family.

Virginia is survived by her daughter Ann (Jay) Gilchrist; siblings Richard “Dick” Gardiner, Bob (Brenda) Gardiner, Duke (Carol) Gardiner, and sister-in-law Mary Gardiner; grandchildren Kelly (Ernesteen) Gilchrist, Megan Gilchrist; Valerie (Matthew) Radue, Eric (Olivia) Gilchrist, Acacia (Joseph) Beach, Madelyn (Alex) Knight, Alexandra Gilchrist, and Janet (Matthew) Evans; eight great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Virginia is preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Geraldine; siblings Allen “Chick” (Jean) Gardiner and Gerald “Jerry” Gardiner.

Family will receive friends on Monday, December 30, from noon to 1 p.m. at the Ford River Community Chapel. Services will begin at 1 p.m. with Pastor Jay Gilchrist officiating. Refreshments will follow in the church hall. To offer online condolences, please visit www.skradskifuneralhomes.com. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Howard family.