Jewel L. Howard

Jewel Howard, a lifelong educator, community leader, and beloved family matriarch, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, at the age of 89.

Born in the railroad section house she proudly called home in Crandall, Texas, Jewel’s life was one of extraordinary accomplishment, deep faith, and unwavering dedication to education and service. She attended Crandall schools from kindergarten through 12th grade, where she distinguished herself early—serving as Lead Majorette of the Pirate Marching Band, a member of the International Rainbow Girls, and voted “Most Likely to Succeed in Life.” Jewel graduated as Valedictorian of her high school class.

Continuing her academic excellence, she became Valedictorian of her class at Henderson County Junior College, and later earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education from East Texas State University (now Texas A&M-Commerce).

Jewel began her illustrious career in education with the Dallas Independent School District, where she taught both elementary and middle school students. Her leadership and passion soon led her to advocacy and service at the state level. She was elected President of the Dallas Classroom Teachers Association, and in 1974, she made history as President of the Texas State Teachers Association, representing 162,000 educators statewide. Afterward, she continued her commitment to education as President of the Corpus Christi Teachers Association before returning to Dallas ISD, where she remained until her retirement. Her career spanned more than 40 years and impacted countless lives.

A devoted member of Central Baptist Church in Crandall, Jewel served faithfully as organist and pianist for many years. Her love of music, travel, and community was matched only by her love for her family.

She is preceded in death by her parents, R.L. and Fannie Walker; and her siblings Beatrice Shook, Herman Walker, Billie Henry, and Darlene Hill—all of Crandall.

She is survived by her loving son, Russ Howard and his wife Kelle of Liberty Hill, Texas; and her cherished grandchildren, Jackson and Joshua Howard. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews: Carol Powell of McKinney, Denny Eastep and Diane Adams of Crandall, Robert Goodman of Whitney, Mike Goodman of London, and Amanda Goodman of Asheville—as well as numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, treasured friends, and former students.

Jewel Howard will be remembered not only for her accomplishments but for her grace, her wisdom, and her enduring love for family, faith, and education.

Her legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of all those she taught, mentored, and inspired.