Howard J. Maurice, 89, of Gulfport, Mississippi, formerly of Bellmont, Illinois, passed away Monday, March 7, 2022, at Canon Hospice in Gulfport. He was born on June 24, 1932, in Bellmont, Illinois, the son of George and Flora May (Bare) Maurice. Howard married Phyllis Knust, and after her passing, he married Eleanor Wampler on September 27, 1980.
Howard faithfully served his Country in the United States Navy during the Korean War. He worked as a supervisor at Snap-On-Tools in Mount Carmel. He was a hard worker, very proud of his work and the many friendships he made while working there. Howard enjoyed playing golf and was a longtime member of the Mount Carmel Golf Course. He was instrumental in organizing the Senior Golf League.
Howard leaves behind his loving wife of forty-one years, Eleanor Maurice of MS; one son, Jandy Maurice, and his wife Marlane of New Jersey; stepchildren, Mark Wampler and his wife Kathy of Gulfport, MS, Brad Wampler and his wife Mindy of Allendale, IL, and Kevin Wampler of Spencer, IN; step grandchildren, Elly Rose Richards, Amanda Sue Jenkins, Jessie Wampler, and Joe Wampler.
Howard was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Phyllis; son, Jeffery Maurice; and one brother, George Maurice.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Monday, March 14, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.
Funeral Services will be 12:00 p.m., Monday, March 14, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Mark Richison officiating. Burial will follow at Lick Prairie Cemetery with Full Military Honors.
Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Howard’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Maurice family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com
