With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we share the passing of Veronica E. “Ronnie” Howley, who left this world surrounded by her family on June 19, 2025, at the age of 67. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Ronnie's warmth and spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Born on November 30, 1957, in the Bronx, NY, Ronnie was the cherished daughter of Frances (Moschella) Caputo and the late Ralph Sr. Captuo. In 1972, the Caputo family moved to North Salem, NY, where Ronnie would build a beautiful life rooted in love, family, and community. A graduate of North Salem High School’s Class of 1976, Ronnie later married the love of her life, Thomas Howley, on November 18, 1979, at St. Joseph’s Church in Croton Falls, NY.
Ronnie was a proud and dedicated public servant, elected as the North Salem Town Clerk in 1999. She faithfully served her community for five consecutive terms before retiring in 2018. Her kind heart and deep sense of duty earned her the respect and admiration of her neighbors and colleagues.
Ronnie found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially in spending time with her family, whom she loved with all her heart. Her home was more than just a place; it was a warm, welcoming haven where laughter echoed, meals were shared, and memories were made. Ronnie had a natural gift for making everyone feel at ease, and anyone who walked through her door was treated like family. Her kindness, generosity, and open heart made her home the heart of the neighborhood.
Ronnie found joy in her favorite pastimes visiting the casino, where she loved the excitement, the atmosphere, and the fun of it all, and spending peaceful moments working on ceramics. She especially took pride in creating a beautiful hand-made nativity for her mother, a reflection of her creativity and love.
Above all, Ronnie’s greatest joy in life was her family. She is survived by her devoted husband of 45 years, Thomas; her loving children: Kelly Cronin and her husband Stephen; Thomas Howley Jr. and his wife Siobhan; Jennifer Falkner and her husband Christoph; and Joseph Howley. Ronnie’s love continues to live on in her treasured grandchildren: Ethan, Ryan, Nolan, Caterina, Colton, Julian, Patrick, and Hunter, who brought her endless pride and happiness.
She also leaves behind her beloved siblings: Gloria Albright, Neil Caputo, Maryann Link, Frank Caputo, Paul Caputo, and Diane Outhouse. Ronnie was predeceased by her dear brother Ralph Caputo, Jr. in 2002, with whom she now reunites in eternal peace. Additionally she is survived by many nieces and nephews who she loved as much as her own.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in her honor on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church in Somers, NY. Burial will follow at Peach Pond Cemetery in North Salem. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during calling hours on Sunday, June 22, 2025, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Beecher Funeral Home, 1 Putnam Ave., Brewster, NY.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ronnie’s memory may be made to the Amyloidosis Foundation, 7151 North Main Street, Ste 2, Clarkson, MI 48346, or to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 633 3rd Ave., 5th Floor, New York, NY 10017.
Ronnie will be remembered for her generous heart, her joyful laugh, and the way she made everyone feel like family. She was the heart of her home and the soul of her community. Though she is no longer with us, the love she gave so freely will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
