Simon L. Howard

On October 19, 2017, Simon L. Howard, a resident of Memphis, Tennessee, peacefully passed away after an extended illness.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on August 7, 1923, to Simon L. Howard, Sr. and Magnolia (Davenport) Howard, Simon was the second of the three children born of this union. He is survived by his sister, Claribelle Howard Weaver of Memphis, Tenn. His younger sister, Emma Howard Scott of Atlanta, Ga. passed away during June of 2013.

Simon attended Memphis public schools and graduated from Booker T. Washington H.S. in 1940. After graduation, he attended LeMoyne College and the Univ. of Tenn., in Memphis. During two and a half years of college attendance, Simon majored in Economics and took courses in Accounting.

During World War II, Simon served in the United States Army from April 6, 1943 until his honorable discharge on February 2, 1946. As an acting sergeant major of a battalion, Simon supervised the preparation of reports and records for military personnel records. While serving in the European Theater of Operations for twenty -three months, Simon was stationed in Italy. This experience led to his lifelong interest in foreign travel and over the years, he traveled to Italy on several occasions.

Upon returning to the States, Simon married his childhood sweetheart, Gloria Eggleston Howard. During their fifty- six years of marriage, Simon and Gloria enjoyed traveling the world together. For over two decades, they were both communicants at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception. Simon also enjoyed serving as an usher and greeter. Upon Gloria’s passing on September 19, 2004, Simon appreciated the support he received from various members and clergy at Immaculate Conception.

From 1947 until his retirement in January of 1983, Simon enjoyed a distinguished career with the United States Post Office. He earned numerous commendations and promotions, retiring from the U.S. Postal service as the Director of Mail Processing.

A member of the Memphis Civitan Club for over thirty- eight years, Simon was considered as one of its “stalwart” members. He rarely missed a meeting earning an exemplary record of attendance until his illness at age ninety. He also served as a Board member and Sgt-At-Arms and supported the Club’s service programs by tutoring children at Bruce Elementary School and working at the Club’s 5k events.

Simon leaves to mourn his passing his sister, Claribelle Howard Weaver of Memphis, a number of nieces and nephews and family members, as well a friends and former co-workers who appreciated knowing him.