Vernice (Buckner) Howard

Vernice Howard, 103, passed away on Saturday March 6, 2021. She was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Oscar Howard, and by her son Ronald Howard. She was one of nine (9) children of her parents David and Isadora Buckner of Oklahoma.

Vernice was the last surviving Buckner child as she was preceded in death by her siblings, Earle, Walter, Roy, Minnie, Manuel, Ann, James, and Verna.

She is survived by her daughter Darla Griffin and husband Mack; her daughter Debora Warren and husband Raphael; her grandchildren Stephanie Griffin; Jacqueline Griffin; Raphael Warren, Jr.; Deanna Warren, and by many nieces and nephews.

Vernice was a sweet, kind-hearted person who had a quiet strength. She aptly referred to herself as a "toughie." To her, age was just a number. This was evident from her ageless beauty and "can do" attitude. Her mindset was "I can fix it" and "I can do it" irrespective of her age or ability. Vernice enjoyed exercising and being outdoors as she often went on a walk or used her yard work as her outdoor gym. Indeed, she prided herself on being able to mow her lawn well into her 90s. Vernice also had a great love for music. She was a devoted member of the Grant Chapel A.M.E. church choir. Sometimes she could be coaxed into performing a solo with her sweet melodic soprano voice! Vernice will truly be missed but her remarkable character of strength, endurance, and independence will live on as a memorable example to her children, grandchildren, and church family.  Services will be held on Wednesday, March 17, 2021 at 11:30.m. at Grant Chapel, 7920 Claremont NE with burial to follow at Fairview Memorial Park.