James Milford Howard

Jim was born in Pecos, Texas on his grandmother’s feather bed on October 8, 1932, to Virginia Lea (Finley) and Milford S. Howard. He is survived by his wife Caroline Ater Howard, and by his daughter Melisa (Lisa) Renee Howard, his son Travis Wesley Howard, grandchildren Cherette Smith, Amber Howard, and Amanda Smith. Great grandchildren Haylea and Ryland Brizendine, Brecklynn Smith, Jeffery and Lyra Smith, and Presley Janacek. He is also survived by his sister Jean Longman Flint of Allen Texas.

Jim was a cowboy in the Ft. Davis mountains where his grandfather, C. O. Finley ranched. He attended TCU, Texas Tech and Sul Ross. He then assisted his father in the photography business (Howard's Studio) in Pecos Texas for several years before making insurance adjusting his career choice. He was the owner of Permian Claim Service in Odessa during his working years. He retired to enjoy his hobbies of golf, fishing, hunting, and motorcycling.

Jim was married to Wanda Wanema (Stephens) for 37 years, she preceded him in death in 2002. He then married Caroline Ater in 2004 and they reside in Odessa and Tyler.

In lieu of flowers please consider giving a donation in Jim’s honor to the West Texas Gifts of Hope located in Odessa, TX.

A memorial service for James will be held Saturday, January 28, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Odessa Country Club,

1 Fairway Dr., Odessa, Texas 79765.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.frankwwilson.com for the Howard family.