Gary Whitney Howard, 78, of Okeechobee, FL, born in Harlan, KY. He was welcomed into his eternal Heavenly home on Sunday, March 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. His Kentucky roots ran deep, shaping much of who he was. He was united with the First Baptist Church of Somerset, KY, at the early age of eight and lived consistently in the faith throughout his life. Gary was a Vietnam Veteran and served two tours with the Navy as a Seabee. He was a drafting teacher for over 30 years, with a degree from Western Kentucky University. His life was filled with joy, laughter, and the “Howard” sense of humor.
Gary leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, cherished by his wife of 35 years, Lori Howard; sons, Kevin and Troy; daughter, Miranda (Ben Peterson), and grandsons Caleb and Cody; sister, Pam (Freddy Westbrook), niece, Allison (Matt Swanson), sisters, Mary Helen Harmon and Kristy Mayes, as well as several great nieces and nephews and his first wife of 11 years, Marcia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Burrell Hamp Howard and June Howard of Wallins Creek, KY.
A service to honor Gary’s life will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Oakview Church, 677 SW 32nd Street, Okeechobee, FL. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the memorial service at 11:00 a.m.
A graveside service will take place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Bowling Green Gardens Cemetery, located at 820 Lovers Lane, Bowling Green, KY at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to:
1) Greg Maynard “Thank you for your Service” – veterans’ support, honoring Gary’s Navy service and membership in Sons of the American Revolution and Veterans Association, PO Box 1856, Okeechobee, FL 34974
2) Oakview Church “Refuge Widowers Fund”- Gary’s church of 35 years, 677 SW 32nd Street, Okeechobee, FL 34974
3) Educational Foundation of Okeechobee – Gary was a teacher for over 30 years, 605 SW Park Street, Okeechobee, FL 34972
4) Plant a tree in a National Forest- reflecting Gary’s love for the outdoors at alivingtribute.org
The Howard family thanks everyone for their love and support.
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