Mary Howes, 79, of Hemet, died Sunday, July 27, 2003, at Hemet Valley Medical Center.

She was born Aug. 7, 1923, in Winamac, Ind.

Mrs. Howes graduated from Indiana University with a bachelor’s degree in business.

She lived in Idyllwild for 22 years, was a local Realtor for 15 years and an executive secretary in Idyllwild for 11 years.

Mrs. Howes lived in Hemet the past two years.

She was a member of the National Genealogy Society and the American Legion Post 800. She enjoyed arts and crafts and researching genealogy.

McWane Family Funeral Home handled private cremation services.

Mrs. Howes is survived by her husband of 53 years, Virgil Howes of Palm Bay, Fla.; a daughter, Michele Walsh of Palm Bay, Fla.; a brother, Dr. William Thompson of Ft. Myers, Fla.; a grandson, James Barton II of Palm Bay Fla.; and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 7130 Magnolia Ave., Suite S, Riverside, CA 92504.