James Richard Howard , known to many as "Jimmy", was born June 11, 1938, in Caroline County, Virginia. He departed this life of natural causes at Poet's Walk Fredericksburg, on November 11, 2022 (Veterans Day) with his son by his side. He was the youngest of two children born to the late, Albert, and Ethel (Green) Howard. After Ethel was called home at an early age, the late, Gladys P. Harris wed Albert and became a foundational support of love for James.

He was educated in the Caroline County Public School System. As an avid learner he went on and furthered his education; graduating from the RCA Institute and also performed additional undergraduate studies at PACE University; both in New York City. His career at the Port Authority of NY/NJ spanned for a total of thirty years where he additionally learned and taught commercial HVAC concepts and supervisory skills. He was a proud veteran that enlisted into the U.S. Air Force where he served for four years.

In 1968 he was joined in holy matrimony to Anita G. Whitmore. From this union, two children, Eric, and Leah, were born; this union would end in 1988. James was a devoted father.

James was a strong advocate for his community and a believer in "helping thy neighbor", that he created and was the president of a block association. He was a talented problem solver that would lend his skills to any neighbor in need. He mentored the younger generation though verbal guidance. He was a Little League baseball coach where he would also become the head coach of the all-star team for the Laurelton, Queens division for two years.

As recreation James was a dedicated bowler, who spent many years perfecting his craft averaging as high as 204 in one point in his bowling.

James is survived by his two children, Eric (Terra) and Leah; sisters, Laura, Geraldine (Jerome), Denise, and Suzette; brother, Jeffrey; one grandchild, Gabrielle; nieces, Karen, Chantel, Danielle, Deaven, Victoria, Kelli, Camille, Nora, and Ari; nephews, Kenneth (Freda), Kendall, Kristopher, Ravon, Javonte, Bryson, Mason, and Justin.

He was preceded in death by his brother, James M.; a sister, Vanessa; a nephew, Keith; a brother in-law, Calbert; and a great niece, Zhane.

A viewing will be held at First Baptist Church, in Woodford, VA, on Saturday, December 3, 2022, at 11:00 AM followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM. The interment will follow the service at First Baptist Church Cemetery.