Born August 31st, 1918 in Medford, she was the daughter of the late Olin R. and Geraldine (Bowman) Howe. She was a 1936 graduate of Weymouth High School and a graduate of Massachusetts College of Art. Mrs. Howie was a professional artist and creator of greeting cards with Russcraft in Boston upon graduation from art school in the early 40’s. During World War II, she helped run the family heating oil business while her husband, Sam, was serving in Europe. After the war, Mrs. Howie’s artistic creativity merged with her love of horticulture allowing her to author two published books and countless illustrations for many books and national and international publications. Along with raising five boys, Mrs. Howie was involved with numerous clubs, committees and organizations in the town of Millis. She was known for her beautiful flower gardens and productive vegetable gardens but her true love was lilies. During the 1950’s, she was a founding member of the North American Lily Society and served as its president and later as a judge in many of the lily shows in North America as well as in Europe. She was responsible for creating many new lilies during her 50 years in the organization and for helping the Lily Society forge ties to the International Lily Society. Virginia was a long standing member of the Church of Christ in Millis. Predeceased by her husband of 67 years, Sam Howie, she is survived by five sons, Tom Howie and his wife Kathy, Sam Howie Jr., Steve Howie and his wife Jan, Joel Howie, and Paul Howie, all of Millis, 8 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. She was also the sister of the late Olin Howe Jr., Ronald Howe, and Robert Howe. Private services will be held at the convenience of Gini’s family with burial in the family plot at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Millis. If desired, contributions in Virginia’s memory may be made to the Millis Public Library, Attn: Tricia Perry, 25 Auburn Rd., Millis, MA 02054 or to a charity of one’s choice. |
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