Madelyn Doyle Howell

Madelyn Doyle Howell, 92, of Richmond, passed away February 25, 2022 at her home at Cedarfield Retirement Community, surrounded by her loving family. Born October 17, 1929 in McKenney, VA, she was the daughter of the late Edwina Boisseau Baskerville and Thomas Watson Doyle. She was predeceased by her husband of 61 years, Burke Hobson Howell. She is survived by a daughter, Lynda Weston and husband, Ernie; a son, Steve Howell and wife, Amy; and three grandchildren, Tyler Howell, Delaney Weston, and Reid Weston, all of Richmond.
Madelyn was a graduate of Sunnyside McKenney High School and Mary Washington College. She taught elementary school in Suffolk, VA where she met and married Burke, and they spent the next 54 years building a life, home, business and family together there. She was involved in many social, church and community programs, serving on a number of community services and advisory boards, and volunteering with Obici Hospital Auxiliary. She had a special connection with older people and would frequently visit local nursing homes and take flowers from her lovely garden to all the residents. She enjoyed music, art and dancing. She particularly loved to sing and had a beautiful voice that was full and pure and never seemed to age. She and Burke were wonderful dancers and enjoyed belonging to various social dance clubs. She was an active member of Suffolk Christian Church for many years where she sang in the choir. After moving to Richmond with Burke in 2005, she enjoyed many events and activities including singing and spending time with her children and grandchildren.
A graveside service will be held at Blandford Cemetery in Petersburg, on Saturday, March 12 at 1:30 p.m. A visitation and reception following the service will be held at Country Club of Petersburg, 1250 Flank Rd., Petersburg, VA 23805. A celebration of life to be held in Suffolk will be announced at a later date. The family extends their appreciation to all the Cedarfield staff for their kindness, support, and compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association - Greater Richmond Chapter, 4600 Cox Road, Suite 130, Glen Allen, VA 23060 or to a charity of your choice. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com .