Johnnie R Howard

Johnnie Richard Howard Sr, a beloved husband,father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and devoted servant of God, peacefully departed this life on April 25, 2026, surrounded by love.

Born on January 1, 1934, in Greenville, North Carolina, to the late Jessie and Mary Howard, Johnnie lived a life rooted in faith, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his family, community, and church. He received his education in Greenville, NC, and on July 11, 1956, he was united in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Lula Beatrice “Harris” Howard. Shortly after, in 1957, they relocated to New Jersey, where he deepened his relationship with Christ and began a lifelong journey of ministry.

Johnnie worked diligently for many years, including over 20 years at EJ Korvette’s and 30 years at General Cinema, from which he retired in 1999. Beyond his professional career, he was known throughout his community as a skilled mechanic and handyman, always willing to lend a helping hand. His passion for sharing the word of God was evident—even creating a “Have You Tried God?” van that gained recognition in the local newspaper.

A devoted man of God, Pastor Howard faithfully served as an assistant pastor at Williams Chapel Holiness Church in Newark, New Jersey, where he later became a dedicated pastor. Through his ministry, he touched countless lives with his wisdom, guidance, and steadfast faith.
Johnnie was a loving and supportive presence to all who knew him. His kindness, strength, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed but forever cherished.
He leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and faith.

He was preceded in death by his son, David E. Howard, and grandson, Shaun Howard. He is lovingly survived by his devoted wife of 70 years, Lula Howard of New Brunswick; his children, Johnnie R. Howard Jr. (Somerset), Raymond E. Howard (New Brunswick), Ronald E. Howard (Virginia), Jeffrey W. Howard (Somerset), and daughter Catherine M. Howard (North Brunswick); seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren and host of nieces and nephews,relatives and friends.

He is also survived by his sisters, Shirley Tatum (New York), Alice Johnson (Paterson), and Emma Payton (Paterson) Velma Sutton (Greenville,NC), and Jean Williams (Greenville,NC)

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Arthur, Willie, Roosevelt, and Jessie Howard, and his sister, Evangeline Stephenson.