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Mrs. Marcia Lynch Howard

10/9/1942 - 4/20/2026

Text:

Obituary For Mrs. Marcia Lynch Howard

Mrs. Marcia Lynch Howard, a woman whose life was defined by her boundless generosity, unwavering faith, and deep love for her family and community, passed away Monday, April 20, 2026, at the age of 83.

Marcia was born in Montgomery, WV to the late John and Margaret Lynch moving to Rand at the age of five, where she built the foundation of her life. She was a graduate of DuPont High School and attended West Virginia State College. In April of 1964, Marcia married the love of her life, Bobbie Allen Howard, Sr. and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and the upbringing of their three children.

Marcia held positions at the C&P Telephone Company, the West Virginia State Police, and the Charleston Civic Center. Her time as parking lot attendant at the Civic Center was a particular favorite, as it allowed her to connect with people and share her warm, welcoming spirit.

Affectionately known as Momma, Ma, Nana, Ms. Marcia, or Grandma Marcy, she held a special place in her heart for her many “adopted” children, whom she loved as her own. She enjoyed cooking, exercising, boxing, sporting events, and traveling with family and friends. She particularly enjoyed traveling to Notre Dame and Chicago to cheer on her son during his football career.

Marcia was a lifelong, loyal member of the Levi First Missionary Baptist Church, where she faithfully served as the president of the usher board, a Sunday school teacher, and head of the kitchen committee. Each week, Marcia looked forward to attending her Rock Steady Boxing class and she was a faithful member of the Charleston Parkinson’s Support Group.

Cooking was Marcia’s true love language. Her mantra, “Nobody will be hungry if I know about it,” was a testament to her nurturing soul. At Levi, she found great joy in feeding the members of her church family. For many years, she was a familiar and beloved figure to the football players of DuPont and Riverside High Schools, helping ensure the players were well-fed. Anyone fortunate enough to taste her cooking understood her gift in the kitchen and she freely shared her recipes because she wanted them to live on.

Marcia leaves behind a legacy of love and service. She is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Bobbie Howard Sr.; three children, Marcia Davita of Laurel, MD, Kanita of Washington, DC, and Bobbie Jr. Chicago, IL; granddaughter, Micah Rose, who was the absolute joy of her life; along with a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral service will be 12:00PM Monday, April 27, 2026 at Levi First Missionary Baptist Church 5125 Church Dr.
Charleston. Burial will follow in Kanawha Valley Memorial Gardens Rt. 60 Glasgow.

Friends may view and visit with the family one-hour prior at the church.

To livestream go to Levi First Missionary Baptist Church on Facebook

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made in her memory to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research P.O. Box 5014 Hagerstown, MD 21741.

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.

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Tributes

  • The Peace Lily

    Kevin Saunders sent The Peace Lily for Mrs. Marcia Lynch Howard - 04/26/2026

    Sending our most sincerest condolences to the Howard family from the Saunders family.

Condolences

  • 04/25/2026

    Vickie White

    I am truly sorry for your loss, I graduated with Marcia and I know the loss you must be feeling 🙏🙏💔💔

  • 04/24/2026

    Mia Booker

    My sincere condolences and prayers to the Howard family during your time of bereavement. 🙏🏾

  • 04/24/2026

    Donna Beasley

    Such a wonderful lady. The biggest heart. She brightened every persons life that she touched. Hugs and prayers to the family.

  • 04/24/2026

    Alaka Williams

    Deepest condolences and sympathies to the Howard Family in the loss of our Angel on earth. Her warmth, kindness and generosity were unmatched.Our lives are BLESSED having had her in it! Love and Grace to her perfect resting soul. Love Alaka

  • 04/23/2026

    Bonnie Hightower and Family

    Prayers for the ENTIRE FAMILY AND FRIENDS 🙏🏾

  • 04/23/2026

    Joyce Dow Harris

    To Marcia's family (and by extension the Saunders family), I want to express my sincere condolences to you in the passing of your loved one. Marcia's grandmother Viola Saunders is related to my Grandfather Charles Edward Dow's first wife, Minnie Saunders. May Marcia rest in peace.

  • 04/23/2026

    Patty Tosebourgh

    From the time I met Marcia Howard, through daughters Danita and Kinita she became one of my favorite people. She was a Xinos parent and the same to me. The joy she and Bobbie shared lit up any space. I will always be grateful for her love and encouragement. Rest in Peace.

  • 04/23/2026

    Dorothy Dean

    My condolences to the family of Marcia Lynch. She was a great person and always greeted you with a hug and a smile. May God bless you and give you the strength you need as you go through these difficult days. She was a special lady. Bobbie may God bless you and strengthen you. Love you Rev Dorothy Dean And Munsey.

  • 04/23/2026

    Barbara Allen

    We send our condolences to Kanita and her family 🙏🏽. You are all in our hearts and prayers during this difficult time. Jason & Barbara Allen

  • 04/23/2026

    JOELLEN SHORT

    She was a great person we got to know the family livig in Rand. love JoEllen Short and the late Hershel Short.

  • 04/23/2026

    Kaye buckner

    I am so sorry to read this. Marcia was such a special sweet lady. Prayers for all

  • 04/23/2026

    Rev Mary M. Mason

    REST IN PEACE my dear sister . What a ride and life you had. I see both your Mom and Dad in your smile. I look forward to the reunion around God's throne. Minister Mary Mason

  • 04/23/2026

    S Duernberger

    My heart is broken to hear the news of Marcia's passing. Our family was so blessed to have been considered friends. Please know our prayers & sympathies are with the Howard family during this very difficult time. Susan, Scott & Chad Duernberger

  • 04/22/2026

    Doris Boyden McCormick

    My sincere condolences to the Howard Family. May the Lord be with each of you during your hours of bereavement. Doris Boyden-McCormickk

  • 04/21/2026

    Walter Dandridge

    Our sincere condolences to the Howard family. Marcia's memory will live on in the hearts of so many who loved her. 🙏🏾 Walter Dandridge and Family

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