Services will be held Sunday, January 5, 2025 at 2:00 PM, with visitation one hour prior to the service at Bethel Lutheran Church, White Rock, SC.
Howard was born in Chapin, SC on October 25, 1938. He was the oldest child to J.B. and Rilzie McCartha. He was a graduate of Chapin High School and after graduation, he went on to serve in the U.S. Army. Upon returning home, he worked for several companies, but his career path led him to CSX Railroad, formerly CN&L, where he proudly retired from after 36 years of service. Howard was an avid Clemson fan, yelling often at the TV.
Surviving are his children, Howard Kenneth McCartha and Cynthia Shaner (Charles); grandchildren, Monica McCartha, Brandi Shaner, and McKala Shaner; great-grandson, Carter Ewell-Shaner; siblings, Faye Franklin, Doc McCartha (Tina), Mike McCartha (Vickie), and Gene McCartha (Jean); along with many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by special friend, Teresa O’Neil and his favorite buddy, “Sam,” his dog.
Howard was predeceased by his parents and wife, Martha A. McCartha; sons, James Marvin McCartha and James Thomas Scott McCartha; and sister, Floy Ann Godfrey.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Hospital (www.stjude.org/give) or the Toby Keith Foundation (https://www.tobykeithfoundation.org/donations).
