Lillian A. Howard of North Truro passed away May 20, 2017 at Seashore Point Wellness and Rehabilitation Center in Provincetown. She was 99.
Born in Fairhaven, MA on September 29, 1917, she was the daughter of Mariam and Michael Gonsalves. She assumed a nurturing and maternal role for her three brothers, Michael, Walter and John after their mother passed away when Lillian was very young. This maternal archetype followed her throughout her life. To be in relationship with Lillian meant that you were most likely nurtured by her in some way. She made it her life purpose to care for everyone who crossed her path.
In 1936 Lillian and her late husband, George were wed. They happily shared nearly 41 years of bliss together. In 1945, they brought their first daughter, Gail home. Eight weeks later they purchased a large home in North Truro where Lillian lived until the early 80’s.
In 1955, Lillian and George opened their home to three foster daughters, Ellen Dunbar, Agnes and Francis Trahar. They welcomed a fourth foster child, Luther Arredondo, into their home in 1959. Additionally, they opened their home as a sanctuary for many fresh air children from New York City, allowing them to experience a loving home in the country. One of those children, Betty Alverez, was only 7 in 1951 when she spent her first of many summers in North Truro.
Lillian’s family legacy was vast. In addition to her daughter Gail and her late husband, Stanley Kazlouskas, grandson Erik Kazlouskas, granddaughter Gwen Kazlouskas-Noyes and son-in- law Scott Kazlouskas-Noyes, there is a small village of family connections that have flowed for generations, from the bonds she forged with Betty, Ellen, Agnes, Francis and countless others.
Lillian was one of the most courageous, loyal, independent, compassionate and loving souls one could ever have the good fortune to meet, and that was all wrapped up in a beautiful, sassy package that stood about 5ft nothing. It would suffice to say that she did not collect one enemy in this lifetime. She will be missed by everyone she left her mark on.
Lillian’s family would like to thank the staff of the Seashore Point Wellness and Rehabilitation Center for the care they gave during her stay there.
If desired, donations in Lillian’s name may be made to the Wellness Center Residents Fund, Seashore Point Wellness and Rehabilitation Center, 100 Alden St, Provincetown, MA 02657.
A Celebration of her Life is being planned in September, around the date of what would have been her 100th birthday.