Jessie Vandevander Howdyshell

Jessie Vandevander Howdyshell, 98, of Bridgewater, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at English Meadows.

She was born on September 27, 1926 and was a daughter of the late Jesse and Elizabeth B. Vandevander. Jessie was united in marriage on February 17, 1944 to James Lewis Howdyshell, who preceded her in death.

Jessie has happily lived in Bridgewater since 1944. She was a member of the Bridgewater Fire Dept. Ladies Auxiliary since 1957, where she exhibited her heart of service. She also was a faithful member of the Bridgewater Church of the Brethren since 1944. Jessie had worked at Metro pants and then as a cafeteria worker for 27 years at Bridgewater Elementary and John Wayland Elementary before retiring in January of 1996.

Jessie is survived by daughter, Deborah (Danny) Driver, of Bridgewater; grandchildren, Bradley (Stacey) Driver and Monica (Carl) Pangle, both of Bridgewater; two great-grandchildren, Harlee and Reese Pangle.

A surrogate grandmother to many, who may have been served by her either in elementary school, church, Bridgewater fire department or lawn party- if you were lucky all those places.

The family will receive friends between 4 PM - 6 PM, on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater. A funeral service will be held at 2PM, on Sunday, March 16, 2025, with Rev. Robert E. Alley and Pastor Jennifer Keeney Scarr officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Lawn Cemetery.

The family requests that in her memory donations be made to the Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Department in lieu of flowers.

Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater. Online condolences may be sent to the family at johnsonfs.com.