Lori Michelle Wills Howard

Lori Michelle Wills Howard of Elko passed away on March 8, 2026, at the age of 58 after an extended illness. Born on July 9, 1967, in Kennesaw to the late Billy and Geraldine Crowe Wills, she graduated from Perry High School and earned her degree with honors from Mercer University.

Lori devoted her career to helping others, working at Elberta Alternative School and Rainbow House. She shared a lifelong love with her high school sweetheart, Mike, whom she met at age 15. Their bond endured for more than four decades, filled with simple joys such as camping and fishing. Lori’s deep commitment to family was evident in the loving care she and Mike provided for her grandmother, sister, mother, and father during their times of need.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Mike Howard of Elko; her children, Michael Howard and Amanda Kirkland (Jeff); her grandchildren, Billy Howard, Luke Kirkland, and Boone Howard; her brother, Mark Wills (Lori) of Cartersville; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.