RaElda "LaRee" Howard, 85, of Rexburg, passed away peacefully Saturday, October 6, 2018 surrounded by family and her eternal companion Bud Howard.

She was born to Ray and Edna George of Ririe, Idaho on February 4, 1934. She was the oldest of 3 daughters.

LaRee married the love of her life, Bud Howard, November 7, 1951 in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple; a short time after a blind date arranged by Bud's family.

LaRee loved life, people and music, she was vibrant and had a light that brightened the room. She was involved in the pep band, spent many years as a drama director and loved to sing and dance. Growing up she was a hat check girl at the Playmore Hall where her father's band would often play. As a mother and wife these passions kept her involved in her family's school, the community and 4H functions. She was compassionate without measure, spending years working as a caregiver bringing joy to everyone who had the opportunity to know her.

Bud and Laree spent a few short years in Jackson, Wyoming and Sawmill, Arizona, before moving back to Rexburg where they have resided since.

She is survived by her loving husband Bud, sisters Naola Gardner and Ruth Barker; son, Kim (Maggie) Howard; daughters, Vickie Kellogg and Gay (Wes) Archibald; daughter-in-law, Sheri Howard Klingler; grandchildren, Jody, Scott, Misty, Annie, Christopher, Adam, Natasha, Holly, Dianna, Lesa; many great-grandchildren and other family members.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Edna George and her son, Cody Howard.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 13, at the Rexburg Center Stake Chapel, 590 Summerwood Drive, with Bishop Brad Garner of the Rexburg 11th Ward officiating. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Flamm Funeral Home in Rexburg, and Saturday from 1:00 to 1:45 p.m. at the stake center prior to services. Interment will be in the Rexburg Cemetery.