Ms. Christine Howard

On June 24, 2025, Christine Howard was called from labor to reward, and she peacefully left her earthly dwelling to dance with the ancestors at the age of 95. She leaves a legacy of service, education, and community engagement. Born on April 24, 1930, to her late parents, Ezekiel Howard and Elizabeth “Winnie” Pollard Howard. Christine grew up in the City of Alexandria, Virginia, and was the youngest of 10 children. Christine attended Parker-Gray High School, where she was extremely active on the basketball team and with the student council. She later earned her undergraduate degree from West Virginia State College (now West Virginia State University), where she had plans on becoming a physical education teacher. However, as she was unable to take swimming so she changed her major to Sociology and History. As a testament to Christine’s academic prowess, she later earned a master’s degree from the University of Virginia. This was a significant accomplishment at a time when very few African Americans were admitted to the University. For several years, Christine taught in the Alexandria Public School System, which was segregated and throughout the process of desegregation. The culmination of her long career was as a progressive educator serving as the Jefferson-Houston Elementary School principal for 14 years. She was instrumental as a leading voice in establishing the Head Start program at the Jefferson-Houston Elementary School, as well as the Alexandria Community YMCA (now the Campagna Center). The Head Start program is still one of the most outstanding programs in the country. Christine retired from the public school system in July 1987. Her unwavering commitment to education led to her induction into the Alexandria African American Hall of Fame. Her service to the Alexandria community also included the Urban League, Hopkins House, the Commission on Equal Opportunity, and the Ebenezer Baptist Church where she was a lifelong active member until her age and health prevented her full participation. On March 30, 2002, Christine was interviewed for the Alexandria Legacies’ Oral History Program. The full interview can still be found online at https://media.alexandriava.gov/docs-archives/historic/info/history/oralhistoryhowardchristine.pdf. During the interview, Christine shared stories about growing up in Alexandria, pursuing her education, and working in the Alexandria Public School System. Christine was preceded in death by her nine beloved siblings: Hampton Howard, Gladys Howard Davis, Hazel Howard, Margaret Howard Poindexter, Zenetta Crockett, Mary Penn, Marion Howard Smith, Clifton Howard, and Evelyn Hopkins. She leaves to cherish her memory two God-children – The Rev. Dr. Kevin C. Norton and Ms. Kelli Christine Norton Thomas, a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews across four generations, and a multitude of students, all of whom will cherish her memory and contributions to their lives. Christine Howard’s life was a testament to dedication, resilience, and community spirit. Her impact will be felt for generations to come.

Ms. Christine Howard

April 24, 1930 - June 24, 2025

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