8/25/1936- 4/21/2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Thomas Howard Sr , a man whose life was a testament to hard work and resilience. Thomas, as he was affectionately known, passed on April 21, 2025 - surrounded by his family. Born August 25,1936 to John Howard and Rosie B. Elliott in Washington, Tx, he was 1 of 8 children. Raised to know the importance of hard work and perseverance, he was a man of many talents. Thomas retired from Trinity Industrial after 25 years of service as a press operator. Most known for his good BBQ, quick witted banter, and love of scratch offs – he was the life of the party.

Thomas married Dorothy Mae Walker on November 9, 1960 and to this union was born Carolyn Ann Howard on March 17,1961, John Thomas Howard Jr. on March 15,1962, and Michael Wayne Howard on July 8, 1963. After 26 years, the couple parted ways, but both remained dedicated to their children until Dorothy's passing on March 23,2021.

Thomas married Otha Barnett on August 28,1986, blending their families for 39 years, he adored her until the very end. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rosie B. Elliott; father, John Howard; daughter Carolyn Ann Howard; grandson, Clarence Smith; sisters, Johnnie Mae Williams, Willie B. Sullivan, Berthina Franklin, Earline Hall, Lottie V. Pink; brother, Arther Howard Sr. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Otha Howard; sons, John Howard Jr.(Sharon), Michael Howard ( Cresia); brother, Joe Howard(Lucille); Stepchildren Geneva Kallie, Bernice Roberson, Dorothy Smith, Clarence Smith Jr, and Tom Smith; grandchildren Nicholas Watts(Latoya), Jason Smith(Jonne), Sherman Smith, Moniqua Watts, Marcus Green, Nathan Smith, Terrance Howard(Jasmine),  Danielle Smith, Trenton Howard, Donna Smith, David Smith, John Howard III,  Carolyn Howard, Amirah Vallery; 33 great grandchildren; 1 great great granddaughter; 2 special nieces, Catha Milam and Lucille Ringer; 2 special nephews, Tommie Sullivan and Don Ray Howard; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who cherished him and loved him deeply.