Westborough – Paulyn C. (Polly) Howard, 90, of Blake Street, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Dec. 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 Aug. 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 High School, Worcester, and transitioned to Hopedale Jr/Sr. High School, 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 three children, Lenore E. Howard (Doug Donald) Dubuque, Iowa.; Mark S. Howard (Joan Robinson) Seattle, Wash.; and Holly E. Howard (Margaret Pachuta) Portland, Maine; her grandchildren, Caitlin Donald, Shea Robinson, Will and Erin Howard; her sister, Helen McLennan of Westbrook, Maine, and her sister-in-law, Madelene Colter of Springfield, Va. She was predeceased by her husband, Hal Howard; one son, Kyle G. Howard; and her brothers, William and Philip Cheney.
Her funeral service will be held Saturday, Jan. 6, at 11 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, Jan. 5, from 3-7 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.
