Baird-Freeman Funeral Home

221 North Meridian

Portland, Indiana 47371

260-726-7171

baird-freeman@yahoo.com

Mary L. Howell, age 91, of Portland passed away on Friday March 20, 2026 at her home surrounded by her family.  She was born in Hodgenville, Kentucky on December 19, 1934 the daughter of Lawrence and Mary Elizabeth "Mamie" (Beams) Buchanon.  She was married on August 22, 1952 to John N. Howell who passed away on October 1, 2016.  Mary had worked for an insurance company in Mulberry, Indiana, John May Shoes in Portland and was secretary for H & H Poultry in Portland.   She had attended Asbury United Methodist Church and New Life Ministries where she was the treasurer. She was a Jay County Community Center volunteer, member of Tri Kappa Sorority and enjoyed going to her grandchildren's sporting events, always there to support them.  She also had Mary's Annual Yard Sale each year.  Mary was very independent until the end, living in her own home and driving herself to all her appointments.  She most of all, loved her family.

Surviving is a son John R. Howell (wife Leslie) of Albany, Indiana, two daughters Patti Bir (husband Dan) of Dayton, Ohio and Susan Moser (husband Rob) of Portland, a brother Billy Buchanon (wife Barb) of Louisville, Ky., sister Myla Farris of Falls of Rough, Ky. Six grandchildren Aaron-Paul Bir (wife Noelle), Collin Bir-deceased, Justen Moser (wife Devyn), Jordan Moser (wife Sarah), Lindsay Gary (husband Brogan) and Max Moser (wife Calli), Four great grandchildren Madden Barnett, Kalloway Gary, Roe Gary and River Moser.  She was preceded in death by siblings Monie McDowell, Nola Dunbar and Frank Buchanon.

Funeral services will be held Sunday March 29th at 2:00 PM in the Baird-Freeman Funeral Home with Pastor Kay Fairchild presiding.  Burial will follow in the Green Park Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 12:00 – 2:00 PM.  Memorials can be made to the Jay County Community Center.

Online condolences at www.bairdfreeman.com