Joe Harry Howard

Joe Harry Howard, MSgt. USMC (Ret.), a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 14, 2024, at Advent Health Hospital Orlando. Born on November 1, 1934, in Eudora, Arkansas, he was the son of Minnie Lou and Carl Clark.

Affectionately known as “Top,” Joe Howard proudly served his country for 21 years in the United States Marine Corps, retiring as a Master Sergeant. His adventurous career as an Aviation Ordnanceman (IYAOYAS) took him across the U.S. and around the world, including deployments to Japan, Okinawa, the Philippines, Korea, and Vietnam. Joe played a vital role in the operation, delivery, and development of aviation ordnance, allowing him to work on and fly in a wide range of iconic aircraft, including the F4U Corsair, AD Skyraider, A4 Skyhawk, OV-10 Bronco, F4 Phantom, AV8 Harrier, and the legendary F8 Crusader, which was the plane of his Vietnam squadron, VMF-232.

Joe met the love of his life, Janice Lee (Ostberg) Howard, while stationed in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. Together, they embarked on a remarkable 60-year journey. Their first son, Keith, was born in Anaheim, California, during Joe's time at MCAS El Toro, while their second son, Kevin, was born in Patuxent River, Maryland, during Joe's service at the Naval Test Center. After a posting at Beaufort MCAS, Joe retired from the Marine Corps and transitioned to civilian life in Casselberry, Florida, where he began his second career.

In the construction industry, Joe had a distinguished career, first working on the ready-mix side for Orange County Concrete and Rinker Materials and later in the brick industry with Merry Brothers (Boral).

Joe was an avid golfer and angler, holding unofficial but undisputed records for many of the lakes in Seminole County. In their later years, Joe and Jan enjoyed traveling extensively across the U.S., Canada, and beyond. It seemed they were always planning or embarking on another adventure.

Joe leaves behind his cherished sons, Keith and Kevin Howard, Kevin’s wife, Jessica, and Keith’s fiancée, Laura. His beloved grandsons, Ryan, George, and Joseph, brought immense joy to his life and will carry on his legacy.

A memorial service to honor Joe’s life will be held at All-Faiths Memorial Park in Casselberry, FL, on Friday, October 18, at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Joe’s memory to the Semper Fi & America’s Fund. For more information, please visit www.thefund.org.