Howard was a NASCAR fan and attended the first NASCAR race at the Charlotte Motor Speedway when he was a little boy. He was involved and friends with the folks at Holman and Moody for years, attended the Monroe NC cruise ins in his red 1964 Ford Falcon convertible that he restored. He won several awards and participated in several parades. He was an active member of the American Legion. He served in the Army artillery division in Vietnam.
Howard is survived by Jennie Lynn Lackey; sons, Todd and Robbie Stafford and several grandchildren; brother, Larry Stafford; sisters, Betty Putman, Brenda Windham and Pam Latour and several nieces and nephews. A celebration will be held at a later date by the American Legion. McEwen Funeral Home of Monroe is honored to serve the family of Mr. Howard Stafford.