C. Frances Hinds Howard     LA MESA, Calif. -- Frances Hinds Howard, of La Mesa, Calif., passed away March 28, 2008, after courageously battling cancer.     Frances was born Dec. 9, 1923, in Winthrop, to Mabel (Grover) and William Hinds. She is survived by son, Dr. Gary D. Howard and wife Joanne of Yarmouth, daughter Jayne F. Garrow of Oceanside, Calif., daughter Judith L. Howard of Hallowell, son Stephen W. Howard and wife Jerri of Washington, Vt., daughter Nina K. Ayers and husband Don of El Cajon, Calif.; brother James A. Hinds and wife Barbara of Walpole, Mass., sister Marjorie A. McAloney of Sebago; 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.     Frances had a love and talent for sports, painting, cooking, gardening, fishing and Scrabble.     After graduating high school at Winthrop High, she attended trade school and worked as a Women's Aeronautical Mechanic during WWII. As her family developed, the Congregational Church provided much in the way of support and activities for the family, including her singing soprano in the choir. She devoted the last 20 years to working with the Foster Grandparent program through Catholic Charities and her favorite years at Meridian Elementary in El Cajon. She loved the children and staff, finding complete fulfillment through giving of herself and being needed by others.     The family wishes to thank the staff at UCSD Medical, Villa Las Palmas and most importantly her teacher friend, Lynn Blake, who was with her at her time of passing. Frances was truly blessed.     A celebration of life is to be announced.     C. Frances Hinds Howard