Jennifer L. Howell, 42, of Conestoga, departed her Earthly home, surrounded by loving family, and entered Heaven’s gates on February 23, 2021. We envision Jennifer being welcomed into Heaven by her Heavenly Father, as well as her loving grandmother who passed away only nine days earlier and many other loved ones.
Jennifer was born October 20, 1978 in Lancaster, PA. She is survived by her parents, Edward and Dianna (Yoder) Howell, sister and caretaker Jessica Howell, sister Tiffany Camacho (Henry) and brother Jerome Ward, as well as several loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. Jennifer was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, John (Jack) and Loretta Yoder and paternal grandparents, Lawrence and Chloe Howell.
Jennifer was born with Cerebral Palsy, but she didn’t let that stop her from living life to the fullest. She graduated from Penn Manor High School in 1997, where she was crowned Prom Queen, and graduated with Honors from Millersville University in 2001 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. While in college, Jennifer was approached to be an exchange student at Oxford University, England.
Jenny worked for United Disability Services from 2005-2015 where she worked tirelessly to advocate for the rights of others who were faced with physical and cognitive disabilities. Jennifer would consult with national disability orgs. for the advancement of persons with disabilities. Jennifer also served on the PA Governors council for disability transition.
Jennifer’s beautiful soul, contagious smile and sweet spirit positively impacted all those who knew her. Jennifer loved the LORD and we look forward to her greeting us when we get to Heaven.
Her time here on Earth was way too short, but she left a legacy that will be carried on by her family and loved ones. Her family is rejoicing in the fact that Jennifer’s body is now whole and she can run and dance and live pain-free for eternity.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Judy Naylor
Jenn left an indelible mark on the disability community. She was a champion for good. She was extremely bright and talented and will be a significant loss to our community and lives. Her work at UDS was tremendous and those that came in contact with her were touched forever.
Tina S
Sincere condolences to Jennifer’s family. It was a blessing to have had the opportunity to advocate along her side many times. She was fierce, well spoken and will never be forgotten.
April Vassilos
I had the pleasure of working with Jenn at UDS. She was always friendly and smiling, but she was also a great advocate for our individuals. She was greatly missed after leaving in 2015 and will be more so missed by her passing. I’m sure Campbell was happy to be reunited with her again.
Briana scheurich
I had the pleasure of meeting her through uds football she was always bubbly with everyone she touched will be forever loved
Shirley yoder
Jenny was the sweetest gentle soul I ever knew. Very bright,with a smile to match. You will forever be in my heart. But you are walking with jesus now. And ma-ee and pa-ee. And I will see you one day. Love. Aunt shirley yoder
Shirley yoder
Jenny was the sweetest gentle soul I ever knew. Very bright, with a smile to match. You will forever be in my heart. You now walk with jesus. And ma-ee and pa-ee. I will see you again one day. Love,aunt shirley yoder.
Nicole Hostetter
Jennifer left this Earth knowing with certainty that she was loved and well cared for, and that she’d meet Jesus and be reunited with Ma-ee, Pa-ee, Aunt Jeri, Melissa, and her Howell grandparents. What a beautiful thought amidst the pain of those who loved her. She really was my hero. She found the good in everything and everyone. She fought hard to achieve what she wanted and didn’t let CP stop her. I loved her so much. I miss her already, but I find peace in knowing I will see her again one day and when I do, it will be for eternity.
Elizabeth Thyrum
Jennifer was in my Health Psychology class at Millersville University. She was such kind, friendly, pleasant, capable and thoughtful student. I will never forget her. She enriched my class in so many ways.
Ken Sherts
Valerie and I are so sorry for your loss. Prayers to your entire family.
Thomas Neuville
Jennifer was a vibrant member of Millersville University. She continued to inform and advocate for such worthy events as Disability Pride MU. Jennifer served on the inaugural group that conceived of and organized the first Disability Pride event at Millersville. She offered a clear voice with a constant message of justice and fairness. Additionally her sense of organization kept us all moving in the correct direction. She will be missed and her legacy will live on.
Carol Wiker
So sorry! Praying for you, Dee, & Family. Let you text at your phone # I have for you, when I saw your Mother passed away!
Again, So sorry! Yes, they our Praising GOD, Singing & Dancing in Heaven!
Their finally Home!
My thoughts & Prayers are with you! ♥️♥️
Joe Scheurich Jr
Sending prayers to you all. I met Jen at the uds football. She touched my life with her spirit and smile. Plus she touched many others.
God bless
Joe Scheurich Jr
Ellen Long
I was so saddened to learn of Jennifer’s death. Her dedication to the rights of those with disabilities were unparalleled. On the occasions we collaborated, she was a joy to work with. My heart goes out to you, her family, for the pain you must feel now.
Linda McGaw
I was sorry to hear about Jennifer’s passing. Praying for you and your family. She is dancing with all the angels in heaven.
Anne Louise Carson
I’m so sorry for your loss of Jennifer. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.