In Loving Memory of Susan Jane (Zins) Howell

A Faithful Soul, A Beloved Wife and Mother, A Beautiful Voice

It is with deep sorrow and abiding love that we announce the passing of our beloved Susan Jane (Zins) Howell, who entered eternal rest on August 9, 2025, surrounded by the prayers of her family.

Born in Nicollet, Minnesota, Susan was a woman of quiet strength, deep faith, and timeless elegance. A devout Catholic, she lived her life as a reflection of Christ's love—graceful in spirit, generous in heart, and unwavering in her devotion to both family and God.

Susan was a beloved wife whose partnership with Steve was a source of strength, joy, and enduring love. Her family was profoundly blessed to have her as a wife and mother. Her presence filled their home with warmth, music, and faith. She nurtured with tenderness, guided with wisdom, and loved with her whole heart.

Her love of music was a defining part of her life. Gifted with a beautiful voice and a natural talent for instruments, she played both trumpet and piano with grace. She sang alongside her sister Julianne with the Choral-Aires in Chicago, and later joined the Sweet Adelines Scioto Valley Chorus in Columbus, where she became a cherished member of the Fourtune Quartet. Her music brought joy to many and was a reflection of the harmony she cultivated in her life.

Susan was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend—admired for her radiant spirit, her beautiful smile, and the elegance with which she moved through the world. Her legacy is one of love, faith, and enduring grace.

Visitation will be held at O.R. Woodyard Funeral Home 1346 S. High Street in Columbus on Sunday, August 17, from 2pm-5pm, followed by a prayer service, musical selections, and remembrances of Susan.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish 5170 Winchester Southern Rd. N W in Canal Winchester on Monday, August 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM, followed by interment at St. Joseph Cemetery.  A reception will follow the burial at the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in honor of Susan's lifelong commitment to faith and service.

Susan is survived by her husband of 47 years, Steve Howell; children, Lucas Howell (Jen), Anne Howell (Jim), and Jahnna Machoukas (Nick); grandchildren, Paxton Howell, Remi Howell, and Connor Machoukas; and siblings, Julianne Allerson (John), Philip Zins (Mary), Thomas Zins (Mary), Timothy Zins, and sister-in-law, Donna Zins.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Leona Boettger Zins and Edward Zins, and by her brothers David Zins and Paul Zins.

"May the angels lead you into paradise; may the martyrs come to welcome you to the holy city."