Thomas Early Howard died on February 19, 2020 at Abernethy Laurels Retirement Community in Newton, NC. His family and closest friends were privileged to share the grace and light of his final hours with him.
Tommy was born on May 12, 1928 in Terrell, NC. He was the son and youngest child of the late Troy Flake and Vagie Sherrill Howard. He served overseas as a driver and mechanic in the United States Army from 1950 to 1952. Tommy was a life-long Methodist; raised in Rehobeth UMC in Terrell. Later he joined First UMC in Newton, NC., where he enjoyed active fellowship with the Parker Sunday School Class with Patricia, his wife of 65 years. Tommy met Patricia at the Balls Creek Campground after he returned from his army service. Camp-meeting time continued as a treasured tradition each and every August. Tommy spent his working years as a plumber, primarily in the family business of Love Plumbing and Heating.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother, Kermit Lee Howard and his sister, Betty Jo Brown.
Tommy is survived by his wife, Patricia Love Moose Howard; two daughters, Terri Anne Hintz and husband Rob and Jeannie Beth Symonds and husband Michael; and his three cherished granddaughters, Hannah Katherine Sox, Haley Beth Symonds and Kristen Paige Symonds.
A funeral service for Thomas Early Howard will be held on February 22, 2020 at 11:00 am at Rehobeth United Methodist Church in Terrell with Rev. Michael Rich, pastor Rehobeth UMC and Pastor Fred Thompson officiating. A committal service will be led by Pastor Thompson at Catawba Memorial Park in Hickory at 1pm on Saturday.
Visitation will be held prior to the service at Rehobeth UMC from 10:00 am to 10:45 am.
Condolences may be left at www.catawbamemorialpark.com.
The Howard family is under the care of Catawba Memorial Park, Funerals & Cremations.
