Rita Nadine Howard

Rita Nadine "Dine and RiRi" Howard (nee Law) passed away on March 26, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio, at the age of 71. She was born on March 30, 1952, in Oil City, PA and she grew up in Aliquippa, PA. Rita moved to Columbus, Ohio in the early 1970’s where she married the father of her two children William (Bill) Howard.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Ida and Raymond Law, PA; son and daughter Maurice and Natosha Howard (OH); as well as, son in-law Byron V. Jackson.

Rita is survived by her daughter Marquetta LH Jackson, OH; sons Raymond W. Howard, MA; Ronald Greathouse and William Howard Jr., OH; grandsons Raymond Howard II, RI and Brayden Howard, MA; and granddaughter Denise Howard, (OH); sisters Cathy Bryant, PA; Janet  (Henry) Law Hill, GA; Diane Law, PA; nieces Jacquline Riggins, PA; Melissa Stitts, CA; and Jazzmyn Petruski, GA; nephew Tajuan (Ty) Law; in special recognition, sister-in-law Brenda J Dear-Howard, OH; a host of sister and brother in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins by the dozens, as well as many friends including two life-long friends, Lamont Iverson, GA; Bernetta Hunter and Delois Hughes, OH, all of whom she cherished and loved dearly.

Rita attended Jones Elementary, and graduated from Aliquippa High School in 1970. After graduation she pursued further education in Business School and in 1989 she graduated from Nationwide Beauty Academy with a Manager's License in  Cosmetology. She spent most of her career as a faithful employee at two of the top companies in Ohio - OCLC (OnLine Computer Library Center) and Nationwide Insurance. She ended her career with The State of Ohio’s 1st Woman Governor’s Office, Nancy Hollister, and The Ohio Department of Development with over 15 years of service.

She was a born-again Christian who shared the love of God with her children and all those around. She was the type of mother who was present for her children no matter the need. A quiet force that silenced the room, she garnished attention just by the way she carried herself. Rita was an elegant, confident, genuine and graceful woman whose soul was beautifully caring. A gorgeous lady; she was known as a peace-keeper who was always thoughtful, kind-hearted, pleasant and selfless with her time and assistance to others. Rita was a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend who touched the lives of many. Simply INEFFABLE!  

She found solace and community at Philippi Baptist Church and World Harvest Church. Rita had many interests and hobbies included bowling, seamstress work, arts & crafts, baking, and traveling. Her dedication to her faith, family, and interests defined her life.

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