Vernon Grey Howard Sr.

Vernon Grey Howard Sr., 80, of Roanoke, passed on Friday October 17, 2008. He was born December 29, 1927, in Sweet Chalybeate Va., son of the late Luther and Julia Sams Howard. His son, Vernon Grey Howard Jr.; and nine siblings also preceded him in death. Mr. Howard loved the flea market where he was known as the (Golf Ball Man) especially at Happy's Flea Market. He loved gardening, especially his roses and fruit trees. He served in the United States Navy during WWII. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Josephine A. Howard; son, Robert Lee Howard and wife, Connie; grandchildren, Malinda Amrhein-Gill and fiancé, Dan Swain, and David Howard, all of Roanoke; sisters, Roberta Cottrell and husband, Tommy, and Darlene Armentrout, all of Covington. He held a special place in his heart for his three great-grandchildren whom he adored, Bryce Amrhein, Abby Amrhein and Breanna Gill. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and other family members. Funeral Service will be held 2 p.m. Tuesday, October 21, 2008, at Oakey's North Chapel and the Rev. Art Goode will officiate. Interment will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends on Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Oakey's North Chapel, 362-1237.