Howard was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served in WWII. He retired as a Federal Probation Officer after 20+ years. Howard was a volunteer coordinator for the Florida Baptist Convention. He enjoyed spending time with his children and many grand and great grandchildren. He showed them how to appreciate the beauty of the Earth by fishing and spending time in nature. As a boy, he had a fond affection for his pet raccoon.
Survivors include his loving wife of 72 years, Jean T. Girard; children, Glenna (Steve) Hegenbart, Brad (Leah) Girard, Lacey (Kay) Girard, Patty (Joe) Ryan, Tina Pentz and Lisa Girard; 12 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
A Memorial Service will be Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 2 PM at Highlands Baptist Church, 3530 East Fort King Street, Ocala, FL 34470.
His final resting place will be at Sunnyside Cemetery in St. Petersburg, FL.
Arrangements entrusted to Forest Lawn Funeral Home, Ocala, FL. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ForestLawnOcala.com for the Girard family.
