Gary D. Howard, Sr., 83, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on April 10, 2026, at Oakview Nursing and Rehab. He was born on September 5, 1942, in Princeton, Indiana, the son of Herman E. Howard, Sr. and Ethel (Wedding) Howard.
Gary married the love of his life, Nina Fern (Deffendall) Howard, on July 1, 1961, in Bridgeport, Illinois. Together, they shared sixty-three years of marriage centered around their family before her passing on May 11, 2025. Gary and Nina cherished their time together, especially their evening drives to Beall’s Woods State Park, where they enjoyed the beauty of nature.
Gary will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who took great pride in his family. He especially loved keeping up with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and rarely missed the opportunity to attend their sporting events.
Gary faithfully served his Country in the United States Army. He later worked as a supervisor in shipping and receiving at Snap-On Tools, where he dedicated many years before his retirement. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, the VFW and American Legion.
Gary enjoyed playing pool at the VFW, where he was known as a “pool shark.” He also enjoyed following March Madness each year and filling out his bracket. Gary loved spending time with his family, especially during holidays and cookouts, and took pride in tending to his vegetable and flower gardens. Gary also loved mowing and took pride in keeping his yard looking its best. He also enjoyed simple pleasures, like watching trains and taking drives in his Jeep with the top off.
Gary is survived by his children, Benita Tarlton, Angie Campbell, and Gary Howard, Jr.; seven grandchildren, Bethany Stephens, Jeff Tarlton, Michael Tarlton, Erica (Shane) Cooper, Tanner (Ariel) Campbell, Becky (Hunter) Smith, and Keri Howard; fifteen great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Nina Howard; his brother, Herman E. Howard, Jr.
A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery with Pastor Brad Garner officiating. Full Military Honors will be conducted in recognition of his service to our Country.
Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Gary’s tribute wall and leave condolences for the Howard family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com.
