Lynda Elaine Howell
Lynda Elaine Howell, 75, of Friday Harbor, Washington, passed peacefully on August 2, 2026, with her Son by her side.
Lynda was born on November 11, 1950, in Phoenix, Arizona, to Peggy and Robert Gaskin. At a young age, she attended beauty school and became a hairdresser, bringing joy—and great gossip—to her clients for more than 50 years.
At 18, Lynda married Blake Howell. In 1977, they welcomed the brightest joy of her life, their son Ryan. After raising Ryan in Phoenix, the family moved to Friday Harbor in 1994, drawn by its simpler way of life and beautiful surroundings.
Lynda quickly established herself as a hairdresser on the island. For more than 15 years, she brought a special light to residents of the local convalescent center, providing haircuts and, most importantly a warm embrace and love. After retiring, she helped create the Pet Food Pantry of Friday Harbor, supporting local underserved families and helping them care for their pets.
Lynda was known for her vivacious loud laugh, and her willingness to help friends. She found joy in gardening, cooking, music, reading, and most importantly tending to her immense hummingbird population. Her profound love of animals led her to foster innumerable dogs from the shelter and from community members who were no longer able to care for them. Lynda’s devotion as a mother carried over to her son’s friends and other young members of the community who needed a mother’s warm embrace or a hot plate of food. The countless acts of kindness she performed throughout her life truly captured her spirit.
Lynda is survived by her son, Ryan Howell; daughter-in-law, Ashley Howell; and siblings, Debbie and Bob Gaskin. She was preceded in death by her husband, Blake Howell; her parents, Peggy and Robert Gaskin; and her older sister, Patty Tax.
A celebration of life will be held in November. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Pet Food Pantry of Friday Harbor.
Lynda’s generosity, humor, and steadfast love will remain with all who knew her.