Sam Howard Jr.

Sam Jesse Howard Jr. was called home to be with the Lord on February 11, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on December 9, 1942, in Lynch, Kentucky, to Sam and Willie Lee Howard. A 1960 graduate of Lynch Colored Public High School, Sam excelled in both sports and academics, especially as a gifted football player. It was during these formative years that he met the love of his life, Elaine Joyce (Lacey) Howard, who became his wife of 42 years until her passing. Together, they built a family founded on love, devotion, and faith—a love Sam carried with him to the very end. He was preceded in death by his siblings: John Dave, Alaus Howard, Sarah Ann Veal, Venzella Phillips, and Dorthelia Williams. Their memories, along with his love for them, remain a cherished part of his legacy.

Sam’s unwavering dedication to God, family, and community was evident in every aspect of his life. He was a founding member of two churches: Sabaoth Outreach International Ministries (established by his wife) and Kingdom Culture Ministries (established by his son). He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, always putting those he loved first. Though deeply saddened by the loss of his beloved children, Darryl and Lisha Howard, Sam’s legacy endures through his surviving son, Kenneth Howard (Dee); his grandchildren: Heather Howard, William Ellington Jr., Mikal Howard (Brianna), Logan Hawk (D.J.), Kennedy Howard, and Madison Howard; and his great-grandchildren: Healani Howard, Bexley Howard, and Mykah Howard, with another on the way. His love for them will continue to inspire future generations. Sam is also survived by his sister, Malinda Chisholm; his in-laws, Anthony Lacey (Brendel) and Armelia Lacey; and a host of family, friends, and classmates who held him dear.

A proud and dedicated serviceman, Sam honorably served 22 years in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Master Sergeant in 1983, having earned numerous medals and commendations for his distinguished service. He served with honor during the Vietnam War and had the privilege of traveling the world. After his military retirement, Sam continued his lifelong commitment to service, spending over 20 years in management with the United States Postal Service before retiring.

Sam was not just a man of the past; he was a living legacy. As a historian of Lynch, Kentucky, he devoted much of his life to preserving its stories and culture. His deep knowledge of the town's roots led to him being invited to appear in documentaries. Even after a debilitating stroke in October 2021, Sam’s resilience never wavered. His long-awaited first book, Wanting to Be Remembered (2023), became a testament to his strength, spirit, and unbreakable connection to his hometown. Sam’s storytelling—whether through family videos or sharing tales of his ancestors—left a lasting impact on all who heard him. A passionate fisherman, he found peace by the water and joy in the thrill of slot machines and scratch-offs. With his boundless kindness, Sam had a rare gift for making everyone feel valued. He saw no strangers—only friends he had yet to meet.

Sam leaves behind a legacy rich with love, laughter, and wisdom. While his presence will be profoundly missed, his memory will endure through the countless stories he told, the many lives he touched, and the boundless love he shared.

A visitation for Sam Howard Jr. will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Evergreen Funeral Home. The homegoing celebration will follow immediately at 12:30 PM. Sam will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery.