Polly C. Howard

Paulyn C. (Polly) Howard, 90, of Blake St. passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 26, 2017, at home surrounded by her children and daughter-in law.

Born May 21, 1927, and raised in Ashland, Maine, Polly was the daughter of the late Samuel and Eva (Getchell) Cheney.

During high school Polly learned to fly pontoon planes; she also qualified to be a World War II plane spotter. She never lost her love of flying and planes.

She graduated in 1949 with a BS degree in home economics from the University of Maine, where she met Harold W. (Hal) Howard. They married August 11, 1949, and in 1951 moved to Westborough.

Polly was a faithful member of the Congregational Church of Westborough for 66 years, having served as a Trustee and on many other committees.

She taught Home Economics one year at North HS, Worcester, she transitioned to Hopedale Jr/Sr. HS, retiring from there after 29 years.

Polly was a proud, devoted volunteer in service to the town of Westborough.  She served: 29 years on the Advisory Finance Committee, 20 years as an Election Official, 10 years on the 4th of July Committee, 8 years on the MBTA Advisory Board, and 5 years at the DPW. She is remembered fondly by townspeople.

Always grateful for her life, and a good neighbor to all who crossed her path, Polly took joy in her family and the multitude of friends whom she welcomed as extended family. One always knew where they stood with Polly. She was an empathetic listener, gave good counsel when sought, and captivated listeners with her life experiences and stories. To the end she remained a self-reliant “daughter of Maine”.

She is survived by 3 children: Lenore E. Howard (Doug Donald) Dubuque, IA.; Mark S. Howard (Joan Robinson) Seattle, WA.; Holly E. Howard (Margaret Pachuta) Portland, ME. Grandchildren:

Caitlin Donald, Shea Robinson, Will & Erin Howard. Sister: Helen McLennan (Westbrook, ME), Sister-in-law: Madelene Colter (Springfield, VA).  She was pre-deceased by her husband Hal Howard, one son Kyle G. Howard and brothers William & Philip Cheney.

Her funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 6, at 11:00 A.M. in The Congregational Church of Westborough, 57 West Main St., Westborough. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery.

Calling hours at the David A. Pickering Westborough Funeral Home, 62 West Main St., Westborough, are Friday, January 5, from 3 to 7 P.M.

The family wishes to thank Overlook Hospice, Sharon Gravlin and her many faithful friends for their loving care.

In lieu of flowers donations will be accepted for The Howard Scholarship Fund.

Please make check payable to Town of Westborough and send to: Town of Westborough, 34 West Main St, Westborough, MA 01581;

Attn: Treasurer’s Office. Include note: Howard Scholarship Fund.

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