Dorothy H. (LeBlanc) Howes

Dorothy H. (LeBlanc) Howes, a life-long resident of Lowell, died at home on Monday, September 16, 2013, two weeks after celebrating her 97th birthday. She was the wife of the late Russell N. Howes who died in 1964.
Born in Lowell, MA on Sept 3, 1916, Dorothy was the daughter of Elizabeth (Brady) and Joseph J. LeBlanc. She was educated in Lowell Public Schools and graduated from Lowell High School Class of 1935 and Tewksbury State Hospital School of Nursing where she received her R.N. She began her nursing career at Boston City Hospital (now Medical Center) and returned to nursing after raising her family. She was a head nurse at Beacon Crest Nursing Home (now Wingate) and a private duty nurse. In her retirement she served as a senior volunteer for Community Teamwork, Inc. at Christian Hill Nursing Home for over ten years. She was also a former member of the Lowell Garden Club.
Dorothy was a talented cook and baker. She had a love of operatic music, especially soprano, Sarah Brightman as well as relaxing classical music, both of which she found comforting in her latter days. She was an inspiration to the many young women who aided her over the last few years. Determination, grace, and a clear-headed approach to life were qualities that made many admire her. She was an elegant and, at times, feisty lady, who enjoyed telling stories and making others laugh.
Dorothy is survived by her two children, Richard R. and M. Barbara Howes and her daughter-in-law, Joanne M. Howes. She was pre-deceased by her siblings, Joseph LeBlanc, Jr. and Natalie D. O' Neil. She is also survived by her niece, nephews and their families and faithful friends and care givers, Michelle and Marcel Rosenberg, Tina Connor, and Xiomara Figueroa.