On Tuesday, January 21, 2020, Gary Allen Howard, 63, passed away at The Hospice House of Williamsburg, after a long illness.

Gary was born May 2, 1956 in Portsmouth, VA to William and Mary Howard. He lived most of his life in Newport News – Denbigh, graduated from Menchville High School where he played varsity football. He worked at the Pepsi plant for many years. He will be remembered for his enthusiastic love for life, most notable his deep love for family and friends. He had a passion for history, especially the Civil War and WWII where his father was a paratrooper. He loved all sports and was an avid fan of football and NASCAR, deep-sea fishing, country music and going to bluegrass festivals.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, William J Howard and mother, Mary Flowers Howard. He is survived by his brother John, nieces Tina, Jennifer, nephew Bill Howard and longtime friends Ray and Debra, who were always there for him!

Gary chose to be cremated; memorials will be held at undetermined dates at the two places he loved the most, the ocean and the mountains in the Shenandoah Valley.

Contributions can be made in Gary’s name to the Cremation Society of Virginia-Peninsula, 954 J. Clyde Morris Blvd, #102, Newport News, VA 23602 to help the family cover the cost.