Omagh woman remembered for her ‘kindness, wisdom and energy’

TRIBUTES have been paid to popular community stalwart Janet Howard, who was a founder member of Omagh Inner Wheel and a volunteer for the NSPCC for over 50 years.

Janet Howard, late of Knockgreenan Drive, Omagh, died peacefully in hospital on April 20 surrounded by her family after a period of ill-health.

The mother-of-two’s tireless work and enduring commitment to others made a lasting impact across the community.

Originally from England, Janet moved to Omagh in 1962 with her husband, the late Ray Howard, when he was appointed to oversee the installation of a new mill at Scotts Mills.

The couple quickly made Omagh their home, raising two sons, David and Stephen, and integrating deeply into local life.

Janet made herself at home locally and soon joined the Girl Guides as a leader. She was secretary of the Scout and Guide Hall Committee for many years and a trustee up until recently.

She and Ray shared a passion for sailing, especially on Lough Erne, a love passed down to their children and also four grandchildren, Oliver, Charlie, Alex and Amelia.

Roy joined the Rotary Club and Janet became a founder member of Inner Wheel.

She served as president of the group three times and was secretary for a total of 12 years and treasurer for four years. She was also made district chairperson in 2014/2015 with the theme ‘Light the Path’.

In tribute, a spokesperson for Omagh Inner Wheel said, “The members of the Inner Wheel Club of Omagh are deeply saddened at the death of our friend Janet.

“As a founder member of the Omagh club, she dedicated so much of her time and energy to sustain a friendship circle where members could enjoy each others’ company while using their talents to benefit the local community and charities, both locally and internationally.

“Her kindness, wisdom, energy and thoroughly positive outlook will be sorely missed.”

Janet was also a volunteer with the NSPCC in Omagh for over 50 years.

A spokesperson for the group said, “The committee of NSPCC Omagh were deeply saddened to learn of the death of our wonderful friend Janet Howard.

“Janet has been a dedicated member of our local committee for over 50 years and will be sadly missed by us all. We send our deepest condolences to her family and friends.”

Beyond her charitable work, Janet was well-known for her love of flowers. She owned Blooms Flower Shop in Omagh and was an active member of the Omagh Flower Club.

Janet’s funeral took place on Monday at St Columba’s Church, Omagh, followed by a private cremation.

Speaking in tribute to his long-time congregation member the Reverend Graham Hare said, “Janet Howard was a genuine lady of the deepest integrity who was a faithful friend to many people across the community of Omagh. Her incredible gifts in administration, organising and inspiring were surpassed only by her creativity. Janet’s ability to accentuate the beauty of any space with her floral arrangements became the source of enormous blessing to all who were able to enjoy them.

“At St Columba’s, Janet used her talents to the glory of God on a very regular basis and was always ready to teach and encourage others. Janet loved the church, but more importantly, she loved the Lord of the church, and her resilient faith allowed her to face her illness with the most incredible fortitude and grace. She is already deeply missed by her church family at St Columba’s.”

She is remembered by her children, Stephen and David; their partners, Michele and Penny; and her grandchildren, Oliver, Charlie, Alex and Amelia.