Cecelia S. Howard, 61, of Columbus, Georgia, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2026, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of professional distinction, musical artistry, faith, and unconditional love.

Born in Greensboro, Georgia, to Creola Harris Howard and the late Edward B. Howard, Cecelia was raised in Columbus and graduated from Hardaway High School in 1983. A lifelong scholar, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Public Health Administration degree from Columbus State University, followed by a Juris Doctor degree from Georgia State University. She proudly served as Chief Assistant Solicitor General of Muscogee County, Georgia, and was affiliated with the Columbus Bar Association, Fountain City Bar Association, and formerly the Georgia Association of Women Lawyers.

Cecelia was a proud member of the Columbus, Georgia Al Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. A devoted member of First African Baptist Church, she also shared her extraordinary musical gifts as Minister of Music at Carver Heights Presbyterian Church. A gifted musician and vocalist, she touched countless lives through her faith, talent, and vibrant spirit.

Known for her effervescent personality, infectious laughter, remarkable intellect, and generous heart, Cecelia had a rare ability to brighten every room and forge lasting connections. Her influence extended throughout the legal profession, church, sorority, and community.

She leaves to cherish her memory her mother, Creola H. Howard; sister, Cherie H. Elcock, and brother-in-law, Marco Elcock; brother, Corwin A. Howard; niece, Carrington Elcock; nephews, Darious Matthew Howard and Camden Edward Howard; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren; and numerous relatives and dear friends.

Cecelia’s life was a beautiful symphony of service, sisterhood, faith, music, and love. Though her voice is now silent, her melody will forever resonate in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The Homegoing Celebration for Ms. Cecelia Howard "CeCe" will be held on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church, with interment at Green Acres Cemetery. Service will be live-streamed (see clickable link below)

Visitation will be held at First African Baptist Church on Sunday beginning at 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., with an Omega Omega Service beginning at 6:30 p.m.

I wanted to share that I have successfully arranged hotel accommodations for our out-of-town family members and guests who will be traveling to Columbus to celebrate the life and legacy of our beloved Cecelia Howard Hailes.

The hotel has confirmed a special discounted group rate for the Howard Hailes Family, and the reservation link is now available.

Please see the details below and feel free to share this information with any family members, friends, or guests who may need accommodations.

Hotel Accommodations
Hotel: AC Hotel Columbus Downtown, Georgia
Group Name: Howard Hailes Family, in Loving Memory of Cecelia Howard Hailes
Check-In: Saturday, October 17, 2026
Check-Out: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Special Group Rate: $149.00 per night (plus applicable taxes and fees)

Reservation Link:
Book Your Discounted Hotel Room – Howard Hailes Family

Important Reservation Deadline
All reservations must be made by Friday, October 16, 2026.
After Friday, the reserved room block will close, and the special group rate may no longer be available.
Guests are strongly encouraged to make their reservations as soon as possible.
For Guests Who Prefer to Call:
Reservations may also be made by calling 1-888-236-2427.
When calling, guests must mention the group name "Howard Hailes Family" to receive the discounted rate.