Lee E. Howard

Lee Edward Howard, affectionately known as “Eddie” to those who loved him, was born on April 29, 1941, in Evergreen, Alabama. He was the tenth of twelve children born to the late Frank Thomas Howard and Alean Feagin-Howard. Guided by parents who instilled in their children a deep respect for education, a devotion to excellence, an unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, and a commitment to treating all people with dignity, Lee carried these values faithfully throughout his life.

A proud graduate of Conecuh County Training School in 1959, Lee later earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Park University. In April 1960, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force. Throughout his distinguished 26-year military career, he was stationed in locations across the nation and around the world, including Okinawa, Japan; the Philippines; and Grand Forks, North Dakota.

It was during an assignment in Syracuse, New York, that Lee met the love of his life, Roberta Hayden. They were married on May 7, 1966, and together shared 59 years of marriage filled with love, devotion, and shared adventure. Their life’s journey took them to multiple states and even abroad to Bitburg, Germany, enriching their lives with cultural experiences and lasting friendships.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1986 with the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, Lee continued his service to the nation as a Civil Service employee at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, until his second retirement in 2000.

Lee was a man of many passions. He was an avid reader who believed in the power of knowledge to broaden horizons and deepen understanding. His library reflected his curiosity and intellect, and he often shared books and wisdom with those around him. He also had a profound love for golf, a game that gave him both challenge and joy. Whether on the fairway with friends or practicing his swing, golf brought him a sense of peace, focus, and camaraderie.

A devoted father to his son, Shawn Edward Howard, Lee instilled in him the importance of respect, kindness, and lifelong learning. His pride in Shawn’s academic and personal achievements was boundless, and his encouragement was a constant source of strength and inspiration.

A man of strong faith, Lee served for many years as a Deacon and Sunday School teacher at Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Dayton, Ohio. Later, he became a member of Shiloh Baptist Church before relocating with Roberta to Richmond, Virginia, in 2022 to be closer to Shawn.

Eddie was predeceased by 10 siblings: Anzella, Minnie, Samuel, Wilbur, Clanford, Augustine, James, Frank Jr., Evelyn, and Mac Howard

Lee leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Roberta; his son, Shawn; his brother, Robert (Wanda) Howard; sisters-in-law Carrie Hodge of Syracuse, NY; Lavera Howard of Dayton, OH; and Maggie V. Owens of Virginia Beach, VA; brother-in-law Albania Hayden of Syracuse, NY; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whose lives were touched by his warmth, wisdom, and generosity.

Roberta and Shawn would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Robert & Wanda Howard for being present, listening, offering support, and simply being there. Your love and presence have been a true blessing during this time.

Roberta and Shawn would also like to extend a special thank you to Craig Rotondelli for his tireless efforts in assisting the Howard family over the last four years, and for his unwavering kindness and dedication.

The Howard family also wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Xi Delta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., for their steadfast support during this time of loss.

Lee’s life was a testament to service, faith, learning, and love, a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him. 

A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Friday, August 15, 2025 at Providence Park Baptist Church, 468 E. Ladies Mile Road, Richmond, VA, with a viewing held one hour prior to the service. 

Interment will follow at the Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia. 

In place of flowers, the Howard Family requests that donations be made in his name to the Xi Delta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., by using the CashApp $XDL1906, or to the Southern Poverty Law Center at https://www.splcenter.org/support-us/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22848562491

The family is receiving services of comfort from Wilson & Associates' Funeral Service - East Chapel, 5004 Nine Mile Rd., Richmond, VA.