James Howard Lizana

James Howard Lizana, 81 of Gulfport, MS passed away peacefully at his home on May 2, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.  He was born on December 8, 1942 in Gulfport, MS to the late Adolph & Evelyn Necaise Lizana.  Howard is preceded in death by his parents; 7 brothers, Edward Lizana, Alphonse Lizana, Elder Lizana, Harold Lizana, Ralph Lizana, Herman Lizana, and Hester Lizana; two sisters, Margarite Papineaux, and Josephine Lizana.

Howard was raised in Pass Christian and graduated from Harrison County High School.  After High School, Howard was drafted in the United States Army and served in Vietnam.   He then returned to Pass Christian after his deployment.  Howard then married the love of his life and high school sweetheart Shelia, and together they were married over 45 years.  

Howard worked in heating and air, and worked for Geiger Heating & Air for most of his career.   In his spare time, Howard had a love for music much like most of his family.  He could play a variety of instruments including his favorites, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, and banjo.  Howard also enjoyed being in the outdoors going fishing and helping rehab many wild animals.  He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend to so many, and will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Howard is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Sheila Lizana; children, Cyndee Lizana Hill of Georgia, and step-son, Tim Bramblette of Nevada; granddaughter, Kylee Gause of Massachusetts; siblings, Agnes (Ron) Hudson of Florida, Thomas (Marlise) Lizana of Alabama, and Gary (Betty) Lizana of Colorado; brother-in laws and sister-in laws, Kevin LoPresto, Ricky Lopresto, and Chris (CJ) Lopresto, Donna Holliman, and Denise (Ray) Saucier. Howard also leaves behind to cherish his memory a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family.

Graveside Services with Military Honors will be held Privately at Biloxi National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree or some flowers, adopt a pet, or make a contribution to the Disabled American Veterans in Howard’s honor. 

Remember me with smiles and laughter, that is the way I will remember you.  If you only remember me with tears and sadness, please don't remember me.  Remember me with love because that is the way, I will remember you.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport is assisting the family.