Arthur Otis Howard
Arthur Otis Howard, 86, was born on January 29, 1932 in Oxford, Mississippi and peacefully transition from this life on Thursday January 10, 2019 in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loved ones.
Arthur dedicated his life to family, service, and his passions. He traveled the world and protected his country while in the service of the Navy during the Korean War. After returning home, he went to work for more than two decades at the Erie Press until retiring. As a lifelong sports-lover, Arthur was a loyal Celtics fan and excelled in all of the basketball, baseball, and volleyball teams in which he participated. He loved Golf and delighted in crossword puzzles daily. But none among these could compare to his love for bowling. The championship trophies that he accumulated over his career are a testament to this. Arthur enjoyed a good laugh and the love he cultivated permeates through his family today. His zeal for life was as infectious as his smile.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 62 years, Verniece Riley Howard; four children: Russell (Linda) Howard, Randall (Leslie) Howard, Dawn Howard, and Wayne (Cheri) Howard; fourteen grandchildren: Russell Jr., Craig (Cindy), and Whitney (Keith II) Salmon, Myles, Alexis, Nicholas, Jeffrey II, Cyana, Kiara, Stephon, April (Amorie) Gaines, Quentin, Aimee, and Jalon; six great-grandchildren: Dymond, Amorie Jr., Keith III, Kalvin, Kolin, and Kleo; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Veola and Yancy Wiley, brother Jack Howard, sister Frances Young, and special lifelong friend Julius Edwards.
Our family would like to thank Great Lakes Hospice Care for their excellent care and support, the VA Medical Centers in Erie and Pittsburgh, UPMC Hamot Medical Center, and Askins Cremation Funeral Services.
Friends may call at the Shiloh Baptist Church., 901 E 5th St. on Saturday at 1:00 pm until the time of the Memorial Service at 2:00 pm.