Henry E Howard, Jr

Henry Edward Howard, Jr.  was born on a beautiful Saturday morning on April 16, 1932 in Thomaston, Alabama. He departed this life on Tuesday, June 14, 2022 in Fairfield, AL.  He was preceded in death by his mother Lorenda Jefferson Howard Gibbs and his father Henry Edward Howard, Sr.

He accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Metropolitan C.M.E. Church.   He shared his life experiences of his world travels with the youth of the church during the “Children’s Moment”.  He remained a good and faithful member until his transition to be with the Lord.  . 

Educated in the school system of Birmingham, AL; he is a graduate of A. H. Parker High School where he marched in the band and played drums.    After High School he enlisted in the United States Air Force on June 1, 1949 where he served until his retirement on June 30, 1970.   He served his country in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars and retired at the rank of Master Sargeant.    He went on to work another 20+ years for the Federal Aviation Administration as a Quality Control Specialist retiring as a Supervisory Industrial Specialist. 

He was married twice during his life to Mamie Howard and Katie Howard; both of whom preceded him in death.  He was an incredible father for his 6 daughters and one son.  Rosalyn Howard-Johnson (Troy),  Henry E. Howard III (Jackie), Vanetta Howard Clark, Lorenda Deneise Howard, Yolanda Howard-Dillard, Jacqueline Delores Howard-Clark and Kellie Howard-Askew.  From his children 12 Grand children and 11 Great grandchildren were born.

The eldest of 3 siblings, he was a loving and caring brother to both, Doree Howard Rainey and Geraldine Howard Odom.    All his life he has been there for his sisters. Very present in every stage of their lives and the lives of their families.

“Perhaps the only legacy worth having is to have been known as a kind, compassionate and loving person” – this is his legacy – his kind and beautiful soul has touched so many people. We all love him so much and he will be greatly missed.