of the resident association, Betty is equally involved as coordinator for the association’s social activities. He is a member of the board of directors at Cape Fear Regional Theatre. She is a constant presence on the music scene. That’s not to say there weren’t adjustments to moving. Betty traded some of her large dining room set for smaller pieces of furniture from her daughter Emily to better fit the new space and ensure that the keepsakes stayed in the family. And then there was the matter of Betty’s autographed Steinway & Son, one of four cherished baby grand pianos Betty has owned in her life. She has loved her Lester, Wurlitzer and Baldwin, but the Steinway with its tufted double bench holds a special place. Her parents bought her first piano
when she was only five, and Betty brought a love of music to her marriage to Marshall in 1951. She enjoys entertaining and often performs recitals for friends in the living room. She recently took her talents a step further by writing and producing a musical in April for her church, Highland Presbyterian, where Marshall serves as an elder. The Howies beautifully transformed
their home so it reflects their classical style. They added crown molding and white plantation shutters throughout the house. Tapestry-style wallpaper accents the entryway. White countertops in the kitchen were exchanged for black. Several oriental and hand-hooked rugs grace the dark hardwood floors, tying the colors together. The Howies have always taken an interest in local artists,
Left | The Howies made their new home their own with plantation shutters and other touches. Top | Betty handcrafts cloth angels, popular gifts among new friends at the Highlands. Above | Oriental rugs reflect the couple’s classic style.
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