Howard McGruder

Family-Placed Death Notice

HOWARD WAYNE McGRUDER Howard Wayne McGruder, age 56, died in Jonesboro, GA after a courageous battle with prostrate and bone cancer. Mr. McGruder was born August 1, 1949 in Gadsden, AL. He attended Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, AL, where he received his bachelor degree. Later he received two master degress. It was at Jacksonville State University that he met his future wife, Elaine Templeton McGruder. Howard McGruder participated in the march on Washington in 1963 at the age of 13. Later he would put his own stamp on history by being one of the first two black children to integrate Gadsden High School in 1964 and in 1969 the first black ROTC candidate at Jacksonville State University. He served his country proudly until 1984 leaving with the rank of Captain. He later worked in the field of technology and management. Mr. McGruder leaves behind a devoted wife of 16 ô years, Elaine, his mother, Elsie Watters, a daughter Dierdre McGruder of Charlotte, NC, two son, Howard Wayne McGruder, Jr. and Mark Anthony McGruder both of Elizabeth, NJ, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Howard was a devoted husband and family man, encouraging and helping his wife in law school and her legal career, He always put other people first, volunteering at the Red Cross and giving money to people on the street, On his behalf Elaine would like to give special thanks to family and friends; staff of the V.A. Hospital, Embracing Arms Hospice Care, Pam Templetion, Sherry and Allison Burks, Janis and Justin Reece, Sheila and Will Payne, Carol Brantley, Berta Grover, Dickie Mitchell, Helen Argo, Leslie McElrath, Tara Gause, Susan Kirby, Robbie Lewis, Don and Jolene Templeton, and of course, Stella Thompson (Elaine's Mother). These people blessed his life and supported him always. There are many others that touched his life and for all of those we are truly thankful. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the American Cancer Society. The body was cremated and his ashes will be scattered at Tybee Island where he and Elaine spent many happy vacations. A celebration of Howard's life will be held Saturday, September 24, 11:30 A.M. at the Olive Garden restaurant for family and friends (he and his wife went there every Saturday). Arrangements by National Cremation Society, 770-923-29404.