Orbin Lee Howard

Orbin Lee Howard, 83, was welcomed into the arms of the Lord on September 5, 2025. He was born on April 26, 1942, in Harlan, KY. A proud member of the United States Marine Corps, followed by a full life of many careers including law enforcement, a dedicated employee at Levi Strauss & Co., and a home improvement contractor when he began Howard's Maintenance & Repair. He was a devoted husband to the love of his life, Joan "Joannie" Howard, as well as a loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Orbin truly never met a stranger, and was a dear friend to many. Everything about Orbin was larger than life; his voice, his laugh, his personality, but most importantly, his heart. His sense of humor and hugs alike were unmatched, and had unparalleled ability to make those around him feel loved. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elsie and John Gault Howard, brothers, Terry and Garnett Howard, daughter, Marybeth Howard, wife, Joan Howard, step-daughter, Vicki Sharp, grandsons, Addison Sharp and Zayed Saylor, and great grandson, Isaac Pennington. He is survived by his daughters, Priscilla Saylor and Reva Howard, son-in-law, Jeff Sharp (Jeannie), granddaughters, Jessica Akhrass (Sam), Aiyah Saylor Curtis (Shane), Heather Saylor, Stephanie George, Megan Updike, grandson, Robert George (Susan), along with 16 great grandchildren. Contributions can be made in Orbin's memory to the Wounded Warrior Project online @ support.woundedwarriorproject.org. "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day- and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." 2 Timothy 4:7-8. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rosefuneraltn.com