[2] She began her entertainment career as a dancer, performing in shows in New York City when she was 14.

[3] Howard's first film employment came when she signed a stock contract with Louis B. Mayer.

[4] Howard helped organize the USO in Los Angeles during World War II and toured for returning servicemen.

[5] In 1945, she moved to New York City and married Alfred de Liagre Jr., a theater producer who died in 1987.

She was a founding member of Recording for the Blind, and served on the boards of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and the Princess Grace Foundation.