Howard “Cookie” Vestal, 82, left this world on October 11th at JMCGH. He was born October 31, 1942 and lived his early years in Milan, TN. He joined the United States Army at a young age and served in the Vietnam War with bravery and honor. Upon leaving the Army he joined the Humboldt National Guard where he served in the color guard that started the West TN Strawberry Festival Parades until his retirement in 1986.
Howard was a loving Partner, Father, Pappaw and Great-Grandpa. He is survived by his Life Partner of 27 years, Lorene Beck Doyle, his daughter Melissa (Missy) Morris, Step-sons, John & Cheryl Hays & Wesley Doyle. Grandchildren, Alex Morris, Andrew Morris, Raven Hayes and Aleigha Doyle and three great-grandchildren Riley, Hadley & MJ. He is also survived by his brother Wayne Vestal and sister, Sherry Gonzales.
Howard was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, David Vestal and John Vestal, sister Francis Darnell and step-son Michael R. Hayes.
A private burial will be held at Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery at Parker's Crossroads.
