Richard Lee Howard

August 1,1958 – November 7, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved brother, Richard Lee Howard, of North Olmsted, Ohio. Richard was a man of extraordinary kindness and dedication. His gentle soul and tireless work ethic left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered, from his cherished family and friends to the broader community he so faithfully served.

Richard dedicated his career to the Cleveland Alliance Downtown, where he worked with unwavering commitment as a supervisor for the Block by Block program. Through his efforts, he helped transform Downtown Cleveland into a more vibrant and welcoming place, ensuring its beauty and appeal for all who visited or called it home.

His compassion extended far beyond his professional duties, shining brightest in his work with St. Herman’s Hospitality House of Cleveland. There, Richard was honored for his tireless care in maintaining the grounds, ensuring they remained a sanctuary of beauty and peace. Each day, he served others in the dining hall, offering a warm meal and kind words, and contributed to the mentorship program, guiding those in need with patience and understanding. This work was not just a responsibility to him—it was a calling that reflected his generous heart.

Richard’s selflessness and dedication earned him recognition from the former Mayor of Cleveland, Frank Jackson, but it was the heartfelt gratitude of the people he helped in the community that truly meant the most to him.

Beyond his work, Richard found immense joy in cultivating flowers and plants—a passion that mirrored his nurturing spirit. He had a unique gift for finding beauty in the smallest details and spreading that beauty wherever he went.

Richard was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Douglas and Audrey Howard, who have undoubtedly welcomed him into eternal peace. He is survived by his devoted brother and best friend, Michael Howard, and Michael’s loving wife, Marion Howard; his dear aunt, Elmarine Hanratty; his Aunt Diana (Howard) Lowe and spouse George Lowe; his sisters, Tracey Howard and Carey Paquette, along with Carey’s husband, Steven Paquette. Richard also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and good friends.

Private services will be held to honor Richard’s life and legacy in the spring of 2025, where he will be laid to his final resting place.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Herman's House of Hospitality or to a charity that supports community outreach. St. Herman’s is a Christian organization dedicated to serving the homeless and those in need in the Ohio City and Cleveland areas, providing shelter, meals, and support services.

Donations can be sent to:

St. Herman's FOCUS Cleveland

c/o PNC Bank

PO Box 645039

Pittsburgh, PA 15264-5039

Though Richard (Rick) is no longer with us, his light continues to shine in the lives of those who were blessed to know him. Please send inquiries to [email protected].