Garland Stanley "Pete" Howard

Garland Stanley Howard, known affectionately as Pete to his loved ones, was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who entered into eternal rest on January 29, 2026. Born on June 18, 1948, Pete's life was a testament to his unwavering faith and the joy he found in the simple pleasures of life.

With a love that spanned over five decades, Pete and his beloved wife, Audrey Howard, exemplified a partnership of mutual respect and devotion. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and enduring memories. Pete's legacy of kindness and compassion continues through his daughter, Michele Howard Mercer of Trenton, and his pride and joy, grandson Aaron Mercer. His sisters, Kim Turner (Matt) of White Lake and Barbara Howard of New Bern, will miss his warm presence and gentle guidance.

Pete's Christian faith was the cornerstone of his life. His 15 years of dedicated service to the Trenton Missionary Baptist Church were marked by his active participation on the deacon board and his involvement with the Baptist men's group. His commitment to his church community was unwavering, and his example of service will remain an inspiration to all who knew him.

A man who found solace in the soil, Pete was an avid gardener whose hands were often found tending to his beloved vegetables. His garden was a source of pride and joy, brimming with the vibrant colors of collards, squash, hot peppers, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Pete's love for his garden was only matched by his love for food, humorously declaring his favorite meal to be "whatever he was eating at the time."

Pete and Audrey were inseparable, a true partnership in every sense of the word. Their shared love for travel saw them enjoying annual Thanksgiving trips to Tennessee, accompanied by sister Kim and her husband, Matt. Adventures to Busch Gardens with grandson Aaron and the simple pleasure of a road trip-so long as he wasn't behind the wheel-were among his cherished experiences.

The bonds of friendship were deeply important to Pete, none more so than the lifelong connection he shared with Randy Foy. Their daily conversations and shared reflections on days gone by were a source of comfort and joy to both men.

As we mourn the loss of Garland Stanley Howard, we also celebrate a life well-lived-a life marked by unwavering faith, enduring love, and the simple joys that create a rich tapestry of memories. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joel and Effie Howard, and his brothers, Julian, James, and Robert "Buddy" Howard. His memory will be cherished by his close friends, Carl Tyndall (Norma) of Kinston, his special nephews, Luke Jones of Trenton and Landrey Turner of White Lake, and special niece, Heather Jones of Trenton.

Pete's life was a beautiful reflection of the Gospel he held so dear, a life that exemplified the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. He has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him, and his spirit will continue to guide and inspire us all.

Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday February 6, 2026, at Trenton Missionary Baptist Church, 206 West Jones Street, Trenton, NC. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the service, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at the church.

Interment will be held at 12:00 noon on Friday February 13, 2026, at Trenton City Cemetery, Trenton, NC.