Della Mae Howard, 86, of Mansfield, TX (formerly of Harwood Heights, IL) passed away peacefully on Monday, April 27, 2020.  She was born on December 28, 1933 in Saylor, KY. She was a rural mail carrier for the US Postal Service. Later she worked for 30 years at Brach's Candy Co. until she retired in 1995.  Daughter of the late Alifaire and Roscoe Belcher. Also, preceded in death was her cherished husband Burley Howard; sisters Vestina, Irene, and Ollie; brother Matt; and is survived by sister Margie.  Loving mother of Ed (Annette) Howard, Euna (Leonard) Velazquez, Orville (Diane) Howard, and Sue (Ron) Rey. Proud and caring grandmother/Nana to Michael (Tina), Kristen, Lindsey (Rolando), Jesse, Jason, DeeDee (Mike), Jennifer (Mike) & Rhonda (Bobby). Her heart grew even bigger with the addition of her great grandchildren Mackenzie, Maxwell, Burley, Nina, Evan, Mary Mae, Timmy, Bobby, and Alifaire.  She opened her heart and kitchen to so many others including extended family, friends and neighbors. She will always be remembered fondly - whether it is for a beautiful quilt she made, a signature meal of chicken and dumplings or biscuits and gravy, or one of the countless surprise gifts she gave always knowing what was truly needed. Della Mae lived a life full of love; may she continue to have comfort with those she is reunited with now.

Due to the current circumstances in the world visitation is limited.  Monday, May 4 10:00 am at Nelson Funeral home in Park Ridge.  Interment All Saints Cemetery in Des Plaines.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the American Diabetes Association at

American Diabetes Association

American Diabetes Association
2451 Crystal Drive, Suite 900
Arlington, VA 22202