Stephanie Lee Howard, born on July 28, 1988, in Redmond, Oregon, passed away on April 5, 2024, in Heppner, Oregon, at the age of 35.

Stephanie was a beloved mother to her two sons, Lee age 6, and Ethan age 4. She was a cherished daughter of Hank and Debbi Howard, Sid and July Kennedy, and a dear sister to Rachel Schonbachler. She was also survived by her great-grandma Charlen Howard. Stephanie's kind and vibrant personality touched the lives of all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her grandpa Cliff and grandma Charlotte McDonald, grandpa Jim Howard, and her Aunt Karen Gillett as well as several great aunts and uncles.

Despite facing the challenges of epilepsy, Stephanie pursued her dreams with determination and courage. She excelled academically at Heald College, where she studied Medical Billing and achieved remarkable success, making the Dean's List multiple times. Stephanie's resilience and positive spirit inspired those around her. Stephanie had a true love for family. She cared deeply and loved unconditionally. Her greatest love on this earth was her two boys. They were her primary focus and it showed, not only in them but with everyone around her. She protected them, loved them, and shared her spirit of love and laughter with them.

She had a love for her Lord and Savior and drew close to Him in Prayer. She faced challenges with her health and other obstacles along her journey on this earth, but she rose above and did the best she could with what she had and with whatever came her way. She was patient about not being able to drive until she was seizure free for at least a year. She conquered that and got her driver's license and hit the ground "running". We often laughed that we were going to have to replace the tires she was undoubtingly going to run the rubber off. She was able to take the boys on drives, shopping, to the park, school activities and more. The independence she wanted came and she embraced it with a thankful heart.

Stephanie loved animals and again had a huge heart for them. When she was young, it seemed every girl animal she had needed to be named Rose and boys got the name of Sam. From her cats, dogs, sheep, horses, and cows, she found joy in taking care of them, and was involved in 4-H as well, which she loved until she had to sell them, being the soft-hearted person she was. She found joy in camping, being in the mountains, and assisting on her father's ranch with branding and working cows. She also enjoyed hunting in her free time, riding four wheelers and side-by-sides. She loved going to Wallowa Lake and tubing behind the boat. She was a dedicated homemaker who found fulfillment in caring for her family.

A graveside service will be held at Powell Butte Cemetery, Powell Butte, Oregon, on Friday, April 19, 2024 at 10:30 a.m., followed by a service at Powell Butte Christian Church at 11:30 a.m., with lunch provided. A Celebration of Life will take place in Heppner, Oregon, on Saturday, May 18, 2024.

Memorial contributions may be made to Stephanie's sons at the Bank of Eastern Oregon, PO Box 39, Heppner, OR 97836. Contributions in Stephanie's memory can also be made to Doernbecher Children's Hospital, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97201. S

Stephanie will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. A huge hole is felt with her absence, but we know where she is, and we are comforted by the love that Christ has for her and those that remain. She is whole, without difficulties or health issues. May she rest in peace in the arms of her Lord, and we look forward to the day that we shall join her. God, grant us a spirit of gratitude for the life of our Stephanie and thankfulness to you for blessing our lives with her presence. She was truly a gift from you. She is now rejoicing in Heaven with her Lord, healed completely from the things that she battled. May all that are left behind fin peace and comfort.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit" Psalm 34:18. On the wall of her young boy's room, she placed: The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. In His love and mercy, He redeemed them; He lifted them up and carried them. Let the beloved of the Lord rest secure in Him, for He shields him all day long. I will redeem you with an outstretched arm. He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart. God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. I am with you to rescue and save you, says the lord. Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine