Ms. Sally Ann Howard

With profound love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, the family announces the passing of Sally Ann Elizabeth (Simons) Howard, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, educator, musician, friend, and faithful servant of her community. Her journey touched countless lives, and her legacy will continue to resonate through every note she played, every student she inspired, and every heart she uplifted.

Born to loving parents Hughue F. Simons and Annie E. Simons, both of whom preceded her in death, Sally grew up in a home grounded in faith, discipline, and deep family connection. She was the youngest of three siblings and was also preceded in death by her brothers: Fred H. Simons, the eldest (wife Alice), and William F. Simons, the middle brother. Their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life.

Gifted with natural musical talent and a spirit rooted in service, Sally dedicated her life to education and the arts. As a Music Teacher in the Newport News School System, she shaped generations of young musicians, nurturing their talents with patience, discipline, and unwavering belief. Beyond the classroom, she served as a pianist and organist for various churches and offered private piano instruction, sharing her love of music with students of all ages. Her hands graced keyboards across sanctuaries and homes, leaving melodies that will echo for years to come.

Sally was a proud graduate of Hampton Institute, earning both her Bachelors in Music Education and Masters in Music. Her time at Hampton also marked the beginning of her lifelong sisterhood with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, where she was initiated through the Gamma Theta Chapter on April 3, 1965, and later continued her service with the Lambda Omega Chapter in Newport News. Her commitment to scholarship, service, and sisterhood reflected the very core of who she was.

Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. She worshiped and served at Greater Walters AME Zion Church, Saint Vincent DePaul Catholic Church, and Trinity Baptist Church, offering her musical gifts and her steadfast devotion to each congregation.

Family was Sally’s heart’s great joy. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted son Quincy Jerome Howard (wife Melinda), who remained a constant source of pride, companionship, and love throughout her life. She is also preceded in death by her beloved infant son, Simon Lloyd Brian Howard, whose memory she carried tenderly and faithfully.

She is further survived by her nephews Cephas F. Simons (wife Betty) and Gerald Simons (wife Raenell); her nieces Alicia Simons (husband Bruce) and Simona White (husband Wayman); her cherished granddaughter Sydney Alexis Howard, who brought immeasurable joy and light into her life, her adored “grand dog” Argo, who never failed to make her smile; and other dearly beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins from all over.

Sally’s life was a tapestry of grace, generosity, and quiet strength. She gave freely—her time, her wisdom, her music, her love. Those who knew her will remember her gentle humor, her elegance, her unwavering faith, and the way she made every person feel seen and valued.

Though she has departed from this earthly home, her melody continues—carried in the hearts of her family, her friends, her students, her sorority sisters, her church communities, and all who were blessed to share in her journey.

“Love you. God bless you.” — the words with which Sally Ann ended every phone call – is the blessing we now carry forward. May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her memory be a blessing to all who loved her.

It is the desire of the Howard family that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

The family of Ms. Sally Howard has entrusted her final care to C. C. Carter Funeral Home.

The AKA Ivy Beyond the Wall service will commence at 10:30 a.m. the day of Service at the church. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ms. Sally Ann Howard, please visit our floral store.