Howard Provins

Howard married the love of his life, Barbara Strickland, on October 23, 1954. His family was the most important part of his life, and he cherished the memories, traditions, and history they shared together.

Howard was a hardworking man who spent his career as a truck driver. He worked for Sara Lee and Tasty Bread in Cincinnati before moving on to McLean Trucking and later Yellow Freight, where he retired.

Howard was truly a handyman who could do just about anything. He was tech-savvy and had a remarkably sharp mind, always willing to learn and figure things out. In his younger years, he enjoyed fishing, and throughout his life he loved collecting guns, watching westerns, and playing the guitar and harmonica. He also enjoyed video games and had a way of making friends wherever he went. Howard never met a stranger.

He believed strongly that he was no better than anyone else and that there was always something to learn. He carried lessons from his father throughout his life, including not dwelling on things and turning to the Lord for everything. Howard was a man of Baptist faith and was a proud NRA member.

Those who knew Howard will remember his quick mind, his willingness to help, his love of family, and his ability to make people feel welcome. One of his favorite sayings was, “Yeah Buddy!”—a phrase that will undoubtedly bring a smile and fond memories to those who loved him.

Howard is survived by his children, Howard C. Provins III (Rosetta), James R. Provins (Gwen), and Debra D. Riggins; grandchildren, Rick Riggins (Janie), Jason Provins (Taylor), and Ellen Colesanti (Frank); great-grandchildren, Mahayla, Kate, Ximena, Joey, Hazel, and June, with another great-granddaughter, Natalie, soon to arrive; and great-great-grandchildren, Malakai and Thomas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rose Roberts Provins and Howard Cecil Provins; his wife, Barbara Strickland Provins; his son Michael Provins; his brothers Robert Provins and Jim Provins; his grandson Howard Cecil Provins IV; and his son-in-law Ray Riggins, whom Howard always thought of and loved as a son.

Howard leaves behind a family who will carry his lessons, stories, humor, and love with them. His memory will live on in the many lives he touched and in the family he loved so dearly.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 5, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Roselawn Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens. A graveside service will follow at 12:00 p.m.

A Gathering of Family & Friends will be held at Roselawn Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, 5350 NW Broad Street, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, US, on September 5, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

A Graveside Service will be held at Roselawn Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, 5350 NW Broad Street, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, US, on September 5, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm.