Emory Franklin "Frank" Howard Jr.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Emory Franklin “Frank” Howard, Jr. of Clayton, NC who passed away on Friday, October 9, 2026, at the age of 61, surrounded by his family. Frank graduated from Clayton High School in 1983 and attended Johnston Community College where he studied Diesel Mechanics.

Following college, he worked at Diesel Injection in Raleigh, NC. Around 1985, he started Frank Howard’s Backhoe, installing septic tanks and footings. In May of 1995, he opened Howard’s Mini Mart on Barber Mill Road. Frank and his family operated the store for 22 years. The customers at the store were like extended family. He loved being there every day, sitting with the “think tank” crowd solving the world’s problems. He never met a stranger. He was also a licensed general contractor for many years, operating TDH of Clayton.

Frank is remembered for his outgoing personality, bright smile, and infectious laugh. He embraced adventure, finding great joy outdoors and in the company of those he loved. An avid lover of the water, he was happiest when spending his days at the beach water skiing, taking the kids tubing or just sharing time fishing with Trey and Dylan. Whether he was out on the water enjoying friends and family, hitting the slopes on a ski trip, or spending his time shooting, he brought energy and passion to everything he did. Frank’s spirit of adventure and the memories made during these cherished times will live on forever in the hearts of his family and friends.

Frank is survived by his wife of 37 years, Jill, his high school sweetheart; his two sons, Emory “Trey” Franklin Howard, III, and his wife, Karen, and Dylan Howard. He was blessed with two grandchildren who called him “Pa”: Jillian-Kate and Emory “Franklin” Howard, IV. He is also survived by his parents, Emory Franklin Howard, Sr. and Josephine Gordon Howard; two sisters, Mary Jo Wells and her husband, Shane, and Bessie Gregg and her husband John; four nieces and two nephews: Molly, Ryals, Ivy, Madeline, Katie, and Jack.

Memorial contributions in Frank's name may be made to the SECU Hospice House 426 Hospital Rd. Smithfield, NC 27577.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 12:30pm until 1:30pm at McLaurin Funeral Home, 12830 Clayton Boulevard, Clayton. A funeral service celebrating his life will follow at 2:00pm in the McLaurin Funeral Home Chapel. The entombment will follow the services at Pinecrest Memorial Park Mausoleum, 12830 Clayton Boulevard, Clayton.