Gloria "Ree" Howell passed away peacefully at her home in Woodbury on June 30 at the age of 77.

Ree was born on August 27, 1948, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Frances Juanita Thornton and Lyman Cummings Howell. She is survived by her brothers, Steven Harrison Howell and Roy Cummings Howell, both of Memphis, Tennessee. Ree is also lovingly remembered by her dearest friend and sister-in-Christ, Monie Munson, who shared her faith and many years of Bible study and Christian fellowship.

A writer with a passion for film and theater, Ree devoted her life to her Christian faith and to encouraging others. In her early twenties, she worked as a writer for KPIX-TV in San Francisco and later for WREC Radio in Memphis with the well-known radio host Fred Cook.

She was also the author of The Road to Quiet, Loving Mother Dolores, and Tooley Makes a Friend.

For many years, Ree traveled the world with internationally acclaimed Metropolitan Opera coloratura soprano Ruth Welting, sharing the Gospel wherever they had the opportunity.

Those who knew Ree remember her for her unwavering faith, kindness, and gift for inspiring others. As one friend wrote, "She made Christianity an exhilarating adventure. Southern charm with the compassion of a saint. The truest form of salt and light." Another shared, "Some people carry a rare gift — the ability to believe in others with a depth that feels almost supernatural. Ree was one of those people."

Others simply remembered that "her faith inspired everyone around her, and she had a remarkable gift for making people feel loved, strengthened, and encouraged."

A memorial service celebrating Ree's life will be held on Saturday, July 25, at 1 pm, at New Heights Baptist Church, 31 Main Street in Newtown.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to New Heights Baptist Church, where Ree faithfully worshiped, in memory of Ree Howell.