Dean Howard
November 16, 1941 - March 11, 2025
Dean Howard, a cherished member of her community and a celebrated artist, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at her residence in Cookeville. Born on November 16, 1941, in Putnam County, Tennessee, she was the daughter of Arnold Mackie and Walenia Henry Mackie, who predeceased her, as did her beloved sister, Carolyn Chaffin.
Dean lived a life that resonated with grace. A proud graduate of Central High School in 1960, she pursued her passion for beauty and art by attending beauty school, ultimately becoming a licensed cosmetologist and instructor. Her keen eye for aesthetics not only fostered her success in cosmetology but also laid the foundation for her prolific career as an artist, which spanned over five decades. Dean's artistic journey saw her showcased in numerous exhibitions, with her latest display being at the Cookeville Art Prowl in 2022. In 1982, she had the distinguished honor of exhibiting her work in The Parthenon Galleries. Her contributions to the Cumberland Art Society further reflect her profound commitment to the art community.
In 1975, Dean co-founded Magnolia Tree Gift Shop with her dear friend Lily Vickers, marking the beginning of her entrepreneurial spirit. She later managed the Cookeville Antique Mall, subsequent to which, she owned and operated the Antique Village Mall in Crossville, TN. Each venture was marked by her undeniable flair for style and her passion for hosting and entertaining family and friends.
A true Southern lady, Dean relished the joy of cooking, constantly dazzling her guests with culinary delights. Always dressed with elegance and sophistication. Her warmth and hospitality brought people together, and her home was a sanctuary where laughter and love thrived.
Dean leaves behind her loving son and daughter-in-law, Brian and April Howard; her devoted daughter and son-in-law, Sherrie and Andy Cannon; and her cherished granddaughter, Victoria Howard Cannon.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 13 from 9am until 10:30am at Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home, followed by a graveside service at Cookeville City Cemetery at 11am.
"I know when I leave this earth I leave nothing of me but my art for others to enjoy. If you have a gift enjoy it and share it with others and it will bring you much joy and happiness." - Dean
The Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com
Send Flowers: When Is the Ordering Deadline?
ANY DAY OF THE WEEK
Order any time up till the day before
MON-FRI Order by 2:00PM
SAT & SUN Order by noon
TUES-SAT
Order by 3:00PM
The day before
SAT & SUN Order by Saturday
Note: These are general guidelines; some florists may not be able to operate within these timelines. During peak periods such as Valentine’s Day, Memorial Day and most holidays, florists are not always able to keep up to demand. Tribute will contact you if there are any issues.
No Events Scheduled At This Time
Send Flowers: When Is the Ordering Deadline?
ANY DAY OF THE WEEK
Order any time up till the day before
MON-FRI Order by 2:00PM
SAT & SUN Order by noon
TUES-SAT
Order by 3:00PM
The day before
SAT & SUN Order by Saturday
Note: These are general guidelines; some florists may not be able to operate within these timelines. During peak periods such as Valentine’s Day, Memorial Day and most holidays, florists are not always able to keep up to demand. Tribute will contact you if there are any issues.
Plant a tree: How does it work
When your purchase is complete, a post will be made on the tribute wall of the deceased signifying the planting of a memorial tree.
An official certificate recognizing your purchase will be included with your email receipt. You can then forward the email to the family or print it and give it to them personally.
After an order is placed, our forestry partners will plant the tree in the area of greatest need (nearest the funeral home), according to the planting schedule for the year.
Due to seasonal conditions, the tree planting takes place during the spring and summer.
Tree Planting Timeline
Orders placed in:
January - May
Planting will take place in Spring or Summer of the same year.
June - December
Planting will take place in Spring of the following year.
Hide Detail
To download this photo, the file name must have less than 255 characters. If you are having trouble, click Save Image As and rename the file to meet the character requirement and try again.