Carolyn J.B. Howard, a beloved public‑school teacher, administrator, and nearly three‑decade veteran of the Maryland House of Delegates, died on Sept. 19 at the age of 87. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Legacy of Service and Mentorship
Howard, a Democrat from District 24, served as deputy speaker pro tem from 2007 until her retirement in 2019. Former colleagues remember her as a kind, even‑keeled presence who mentored countless younger legislators.
“She probably has a posse of mentees that are competing,” former delegate Melony Griffith said, adding that many considered Howard a favorite mentor.
Maryland Treasurer Dereck Davis, who represented District 25 from 1995‑2021, noted Howard’s willingness to help younger members learn the ropes in Annapolis. “She never had any problem watching the younger people advance,” Davis said.
Commitment to Education and Children
Born in DeLand, Florida, in December 1938, Howard’s lifelong commitment to education began early, according to her obituary from J.B. Jenkins Funeral Home in Hyattsville. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Florida A&M University, a master’s in educational administration and supervision from Bowie State University, and an honorary doctorate in humanities from Sojourner Douglass College.
Howard spent more than 30 years in the Prince George’s County school system as a teacher, principal, administrator, and director of the Department of Federal Programs. In the General Assembly, she was a persistent advocate for children, a sentiment echoed by Delegate Anne Healey (D‑Prince George’s): “She was an educator her whole life, and even as she was in the legislature, she always put the children first.”
Leadership Roles and Legislative Impact
During her tenure, Howard chaired the Legislative Black Caucus and the House Democratic Caucus, and served on the House Ways and Means Committee from 1993‑2019. She was known for her thoughtful, data‑driven approach, even on contentious issues such as an alcohol tax increase, where she presented her case without “sharp elbows.”
Colleagues recall her calm, patient guidance. Griffith described a moment when Howard advised her to take a more cautious approach on a difficult bill, saying, “You have a choice. It doesn’t look like this is going to pass, and you’re putting people in uncomfortable positions with your strong advocacy for it.” Though Griffith initially ignored the advice, she later recognized Howard’s wisdom.
Personal Touch and Community Spirit
Howard was also known for her warm hospitality. She hosted popular backyard fish‑fry fundraisers that drew people from across the state, with her husband cooking the fish. Former Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker III recalled those events as rare community gatherings that brought neighbors together.
She also organized a winter holiday celebration at the historic Newton White Mansion, featuring carols and prayers, reflecting her faith and love for community fellowship.
Tributes from Across the Legislature
Delegate C.T. Wilson (D‑Charles) remembered Howard’s guidance for new Black delegates, emphasizing professionalism and conscience‑driven voting. “She cared about us as individuals,” Wilson said.
Former delegate Melony Griffith praised Howard’s humility, noting she never sought the spotlight. “She just wanted to do the work,” Griffith said.
Former County Executive Baker called Howard “one of the best public servants I have ever met,” adding that even when they disagreed on policy, she was always willing to explain her position and listen.
Final Services
Services are scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 6, at First Baptist Church of Highland Park in Landover, with visitation at 10 a.m. and the funeral at 11 a.m.
Howard’s legacy endures in the many legislators she mentored, the children whose education she championed, and the community she served with quiet dedication.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
