Howard William Decker Sr.

Mr. Howard William Decker, Sr. of Virginia Beach, VA passed away peacefully Monday, September 23, 2024 at the age of 74. He was at home with his family by his side- which is right where he wanted to be.
He was born October 13, 1949 in Port Jervis, NY the son of the late Howard and Mary Oppelt Decker.
Howard married Peggy Howey 47 years ago on June 25, 1977 in the Town of Deerpark, NY.
He proudly volunteered to serve his country in the U.S. Army for 2 tours during the Vietnam War from 1969 – 1971 and earned the title of Spec/5 "Buck Sergent" and was a Marksman. Subsequently, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1974 where he went to war again in the Gulf War and became an engineering instructor before retiring in 1992 after 22-and-a-half years. Throughout his military career, he bravely received a Purple Heart and 2 Bronze Stars- amongst numerous commendations throughout his military career.
In his post military career, Howard worked as a Project Manager for Day & Zimmerman of Norfolk, VA, where he retired for a second time after 23 years.
He was a member of the Rosa - Fleming V.F.W. Post No. 161 of Port Jervis, NY, the Tri-States Naval Ship, V.F.W. Post No. 7241 of Port Jervis, NY, and the General MacArthur Memorial V.F.W. Post No. 392 of Virginia Beach, VA.
Surviving are: Wife: Peggy Decker Brother: Frank Decker Daughter: MaryAnn Chisler & her husband Kent Daughter: JoAnna Taylor and her husband Luke Son: Howard Decker, Jr. and his wife Adonna 11 Grandchildren: Ryan and Taylor Wright, Alex, Bailey, Brittney and EJ Harris, Taylor, Lana, Peyton, Chance, Lillian, Pippa, and Logan 4 Brothers-in-law: Danny Howey & his wife Cathy Jimmy Howey and his wife Debbie William "Billy" Howey Walter Talmadge 2 Sisters-in-law: Cheryl Howey Carol Judge and her husband Tom Several nieces, nephews, and cousins- including his favorite cousin, Harold Decker
He was predeceased by his 2 brothers: Kenneth and Steven Decker Brothers-in-law: John and Charles "Beebies" Howey Sister-in-law: Maryanne Mahea Grandson: Kane William Decker
There will be no visitation and funeral services will be held privately at the family's convenience.
A burial with Military Honors will be in the Manning Cemetery, Town of Greenville, NY.
Memorial contributions may be made to the lung cancer research center or animal shelter of your choice.
Arrangements by GRAY-PARKER FUNERAL HOME, 100 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY 12771 845.856.5191 www.grayparkerfuneralhome.com