Regina R. Howes, 93, of Norwich, died on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital.
Born on April 3, 1932, in Norwich, Regina was the daughter of the late Marion (Bush) and Claude Cooper, Sr. She attended school in Norwich and was a graduate of Norwich High School. While in high school, she took a position as a switchboard operator with the Chenango & Unadilla Telephone Company. Regina then worked for the Norwich Pharmacal Company before returning to work at the telephone company, a career she had until her retirement. In her leisure time, she enjoyed spending time with her family and enjoyed her backyard gardens.
Regina is survived by her children, Sherry Rutledge of Norwich, Karin Gross and partner Mike Ferris of Norwich, and Tom (Kristen) Rutledge of Hamilton; grandchildren, Jennifer (Andy) Smith, Jackie (Shaun) Sexton, Amy Gross, Chris Young, Alisha Damon, Ryan Rutledge, Gavin Rutledge, and Tina (Nick) Myers; several great-grandchildren; and half-siblings, Donald (Sandra) Cooper, Linda (Tom) Smith, and Claudia (Bill) Rinaldo.
She was predeceased by her daughters, Laurie Ann Rutledge, and Donna Nahlik; her aunt who was like a mother to her, Cecile Cooper; siblings, Robert Cooper and Claude Cooper, Jr; and her half-brother, Frederick Golby, Sr.
The family would like to thank the staff at Chenango Memorial Hospital for the wonderful care that they provided to Regina.
A private graveside service for Regina will be held at the convenience of the family. Funeral arrangements are entrusted with the Wilson Funeral Home. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit: www.wilsonfh.com.