Vernon Lee Howard

Vernon Lee Howard peacefully passed away in his home on January 22, 2025 at the age of 87. Vern was born on April 7, 1937 in Texarkana. He married the love of his life Jo Lee on February 14, 1983 and they built a wonderful life together.

Vern was a good man. As a faithful and loving husband, an amazing father, and a quick witted jokester, he was the definition of patience. He was loved and respected by all whether young or old, friends or family. Love was his guiding compass and evident in his smile. Vern instilled the Word of God in his family and worked to provide opportunities for his family to be together. After both Vern and Jo Lee retired from USAirways in 2001, they enjoyed nature by mowing, gardening, birdwatching, traveling, camping, fishing, and maintaining their large chicken coop. Simple joy was found sitting by the firepit or poolside with a cup of coffee or visiting Eagle Creek Park. Vern was a great listener with an even better shoulder to lean on in the comfort of silence. You just had to find him first-usually outside, piddling in the garage, or somewhere around the house working on a project. Generous with his time, wise with his words, and filled with love, Vern easily became the foundation of the family. His presence will be deeply missed. Vern’s legacy lives on through his family with whom he was proud of and found joy in time spent with them. 

Survived by his loving and fiercely devoted wife Jo Lee and his children Beverly Knighten (Anthony Wells), Alisa L White (Vernon White), Gara Schommer (Eric Schommer), Joe Judson (Christina Judson), Julee Bjerke (Andy Bjerke), and Jed Judson (Sarah Judson)

Grandchildren; Emily Schommer, Jacob Schommer, Jillian Bennett (Noah Bennett), Maya Bjerke (Aaron Feikes), Elias Bjerke, Addison Judson, Travis Judson, Jonah Judson, Naomi Elrod (Bryce Elrod), Teddy Judson, Levi Judson, Katelynn Judson, Travis Knighten, Vernon Howard ll, Saquaya White, Trevor Wells, Terrica Mason-Wells, Antoine White, Aaron White, Sierra White, Thresa Wells, Gary Howard Jr, Cierra Howard, Bunice Howard Jr, Maurica Howard.

Great Grandchildren; Genevieve Bennett, Adeline Bennett, Kehlani Judson, Travon Knighten, Travis Knighten Jr, Sheronda Knighten, Vernon Howard lll, Braisia White, Savaya White, Jameer Childers, Jaedon Wells, Treveon Wells, Daimon Wells, La’tavia Wells, Ayanna Wells, Taela Wells, McKensie Wells, Denise Wells, Travonta Wells, and Daxton Elrod. 

Preceded in death by parents Bunice and Therster Howard, children; Bunice M Howard, Vernon L Howard Jr and Gary D Howard.

A celebration of life will be held at a later, warmer date. Vern didn’t like the cold weather.

The family has requested to not receive flowers or gifts but to offer up prayers for Vern and his family.