Geraldene D. Howerton

Geraldene D. Howerton of Germantown, Tenn., surrounded by family, passed away on November 28, 2013, at the age of 77, due to complications from a stroke. She was born September 12, 1936, in Flippin, Ark. She grew up in Cotter, Ark., and graduated from Cotter High School in 1954. She married Robert B. Howerton, Jr., in November 1954. She became the wife of a United Methodist Minister, as well as a U.S. Army Chaplain's wife. Gerry was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. Her life centered around her church family and friends. She was a compassionate person who would go out of her way to assist people in need. She touched many people's lives and will be deeply missed by all that knew her. Gerry was a long time and active member of Germantown United Methodist Church. She served in various leadership roles in the church. She was deeply involved in the Gilbert Sunday School Class, the Mertice Foster UMW Circle, and the Flower Ministry. Gerry loved flowers and was a member of two Garden Clubs in Germantown. During her husband's military service years, Gerry served as President of the Protestant Women of the Chapel and President of the Officer's Wives Club at several military installations. Gerry was preceded in death by her parents, Elwood and Bessie Daffron, sons, Charles R. Howerton and Robert B. Howerton, III. She is survived by her beloved husband of 59 years, Chaplain (COL) Robert B. Howerton, Jr., USA, Retired, of Germantown, Tenn.; brother Richard Daffron, of Flippin, Ark..; daughter, Mary Jane Howerton Carroll and husband Michael of San Antonio, Texas; grandchildren, Jennifer M. Carroll Baier and husband Talon, and Matthew W. Carroll, of San Antonio, Texas; Robert B. Howerton IV and wife Heidi of Winchester, Calif.; Nicholas C. Howerton and Wesley A. Howerton of Memphis, Tenn.; and great grandchild, Wyatt W. Baier of San Antonio, Texas. A celebration of life service will be held at Germantown United Methodist Church, on Wednesday, December 4, 2013. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. in the church parlor followed by the memorial service at 11 a.m. A reception will immediately follow in the church fellowship hall. A funeral service celebrating her life will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, in San Antonio, Texas, at a later date. The entire Howerton family is forever grateful to the members of Germantown UMC, and Gerry's friends, for their care, prayers, and visiting her during her illness. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Germantown United Methodist Church designated to the Pastor's Discretionary Fund, or to Methodist Residence Hospice in Memphis, Tenn.