PUBLISHED:June 26, 2008

Former Dean of Admissions Charles "Charlie" Howell dies

June 26, 2008 – Charles "Charlie" Richardson Howell, the former dean of admissions for Duke Law School, died peacefully Friday, June 20th at Hillcrest Convalescent Center in Durham. Howell worked at the Law School from 1960-1983.

Always helpful, friendly and known for her impeccable sense of style, Howell became a mother to generations of law students. She was deeply respected by the Law School community, and will be deeply missed. Her memorial service was held Wednesday, June 25 at Duke Memorial United Methodist Church, followed by burial in Maplewood Cemetery. There were no survivors.

Obituary
Durham – Charles Richardson “Charlie” Howell died peacefully Friday, June 20, 2008 at Hillcrest Convalescent Center.

Charlie was born December 6, 1931 and grew up in Littleton, NC. She attended Meredith College and moved to Durham in 1955. Stan, her only son, was one of the most loved people in her life, and of whom she was most proud. He graduated Summa Cum Laude and was valedictorian of his class from Duke University. Stan preceded his mother in death in 2001.

Charlie began working as the Administrator for the School of Law at Duke University in 1960. For generations of Duke Law students, Charlie was the friendly face who helped each student select classes, professors, and jobs. She was always helpful and always impeccably dressed with a flair for fashion and elegance. She was adopted by several law school classes and designated as mother to all the students. After retiring from Duke, Charlie continued to live on Alabama Avenue until her health declined. Loved by all her friends, Charlie will be missed most by her ‘children’, which were all of her former Duke Law students.

She was a long time member of Duke Memorial United Methodist Church, having joined the church in 1962. She had a very stong faith. She was one of the most positive individuals, and it was great to see her laugh. She found humor in many tough situations, and tried to see the best in all those she came in contact with.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Duke Memorial United Methodist Church. Officiating will be the Rev. Lisa Brown Cole. Burial will follow in Maplewood Cemetery.

Flowers are acceptable, or memorials may be directed to Duke Memorial United Methodist Church, 504 W. Chapel Hill Street, Durham, NC 27701.