May 9, 2025, 79, Goldsboro —
Alberta “Bert” Sauls Howard, 79, peacefully passed away at Kitty Askins Hospice Center while surrounded by the love of her family. Bert was born in Greene County to the late Jimmy Sauls and Edna Radford Sauls on July 1, 1945. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Gerald “Pete” Howard Sr.; son-in-law, Neal Sasser; and sisters, Christine, Kay, and Sandra.
An exceptional seamstress by trade, Bert worked for many years at La Grange Manufacturing and later Actions Sportswear. Additionally, she took time to create beautiful clothes for her children, ensuring that they were both well-dressed and comfortable. In later working years, Bert took a job with Britthaven where she continued until her retirement.
Well-known for her skills in the kitchen, everyone showed up to Bert’s house when they were ready for a good meal. No matter the menu, Bert’s was the best. Breakfast, dinner, and supper were all prepared in her kitchen daily, and those privileged to sit at her table never left hungry.
With a remarkable green thumb, Bert spent many hours enjoying the flowers in her yard. Friends and family depended on Bert’s way with plants, knowing that she could bring even the sickest plants back to life. Working alongside her husband, Pete, in the garden was always a delight, as Bert referred to Pete as “her everything.” The only person that compared at least a little to Pete was Elvis, with Bert claiming the title of his biggest fan.
A service of love and remembrance will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home. The family will receive friends in the hour prior to service, and other times at the home of her son, Edward. Committal will follow at Fairview Cemetery, La Grange.
Alberta is survived by her children, Edward Gerald Howard Jr. (Betty) and Loretta Sasser; grandchildren, Hunter Howard (Abbott), Dustin Howard (Katie), and Stephanie Davis; great-grandchildren, Levi, Dalton, Kalli-Ann, Harker, Lizzie, and Sawyer; a devoted niece, Jaimie Phelps (Taylor); sister, Thelma; her faithful little dog, Willie; and a host of special nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Kitty Askins Hospice Center, 107 Handley Park Court, Goldsboro, NC 27534. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
