John Lee Howard

John Lee Howard of North Little Rock passed away peacefully on June 7, 2023. He was 93 years old. He was born into a large family on January 15, 1930, in Russellville, Arkansas. He joined the U.S. Army and transitioned into the Air Force where he served in the Korean War. This gave him and his family the opportunity to travel the world, spending time in Guam, Japan, and many states across the United States.

Johnny enjoyed an extensive career of service, not only to his country, but also served as an electronic service technician lead for Southwestern Bell, where he retired in the early 1990s. He was extremely active and had a musical career that Spand over his entire adult life, playing the steel guitar across the states, with not only private bands, but with numerous well-known musicians from Jimmy Doyle, and Merle Haggard, to Shoji Tabuchi, whom he gave his first ever sports coat to so Shoji could perform on stage. His love for music hit a higher point when he recorded in debuted his CD of some of his favorite country western hits, including "Drinking Champagne and Feeling No Pain" and "Room Full of Roses."

He is survived by his wife, Marie Griggs Howard of Benton, his grandson Adam Stanley of Dallas, Texas, and his stepdaughter, Vicki Wylie of Benton. He leaves behind a loving and extensive family of friends and relatives that were close to his heart. He was preceded in death by his late wife, Beatrice Howard, and their three children: Craig Lane Howard, Michael Wayne Howard, and Debra Jane Howard.

He was a social powerhouse in the life of many gatherings and celebrations. He gave back to his peers and community by delivering meals on wheels, building wheelchair ramps for those in need, and was elected post commander for the local VFW, while continuing performing for as long as his health would allow. He leaves behind a fruitful legacy of devotion and honor to his family and friends.

A memorial gathering will take place at the Smith’s North Little Rock funeral home at 10 AM Monday, June 12. The following graveside service at 2 PM will be at Forrest Park cemetery, Forrest City, Arkansas.

Arrangements by Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St, North Little Rock, AR 72114, 501-758-1170.--