Howard Franklin Stone

Howard Franklin Stone, 80, of La Porte, TX, passed away on November 12, 2025 after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's disease. He is Preceded in death by his beloved wife, Wonda Stone; his son, William Stone; his parents, Jack and Mildred Stone; and his brother, Barry Stone.

Born on January 30, 1945, in West Orange, New Jersey, to Jack and Mildred Stone, Howard is survived by his daughter, Mondee Stone, grandchildren, Heather and Michael Gutierrez, Taylor Stone, and Laik Dugue; his "second daughter", Shannon Osborne, great-grandchildren, Brooks and Harry Gutierrez; daughter-in-law, Lisa Stone; sister and brother-in-law, Kathy Anderson and Troy Raskin; brother and sister-in-law, Johnny and Linda Anderson; sister-in-law, Katherine Anderson; brother, Ira Stone; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Howard grew up in New Jersey and spent much of his early years exploring the place he loved most, Manhattan. He attended Farleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree. After graduation, he moved across the country to California, where he met and married the love of his life, Wonda. Together they welcomed two children, William and Mondee. As a family, they spent years exploring the United States, living in California, Arkansas, and Florida before settling in La Porte, Texas.

Howard built a long career as a planner and scheduler within the oil and gas industry. After retiring, Howard and Wonda embraced their love of travel once again, purchasing an RV and journeying across the country. Those trips brought them joy, adventure, and a renewed sense of togetherness.

Nearly a decade ago, Howard was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. As the illness progressed and he gradually lost the memories he had spent a lifetime building, parts of his spirit remained steady. He never stopped loving music, responding to it with a familiarity that endured even when words faded. He continued to find humor, offering small moments of levity that reminded his family of the dry wit that had always been so natural to him.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff of Sylvan Shores Wellness Center for their constant, compassionate, and supportive care throughout Howard's final years.

Howard was a man of few words who preferred to observe the world with quiet appreciation. He cherished his family, enjoyed a good story, and carried a gentle sense of humor that made him easy to love. His presence will be profoundly missed, and his memory held close by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association at https://www.alz.org, in honor of Howard's life and in support of continued research and care for those affected by the disease.

A memorial service will be held on November 26, at 10:00 a.m. at Clayton Funeral Home in La Porte, Texas.