James Randy Howard

James Randy Howard

Sunrise – November 14, 1954 Sunset – April 18, 2025

James Randy Howard was born on November 14, 1954, to the late Theodore Howard and the late Rena Bell Gill-Thomas Howard. A beloved son, brother, cousin, uncle, and friend, James carried a quiet spirit that left a lasting imprint on all who knew him.

He graduated from English High School in Boston in 1972 and, shortly thereafter, answered the call to serve his country. On April 21, 1972, James enlisted in the United States Navy. Though his time in service was brief, he served honorably and was officially discharged with retirement due to disability on August 17, 1972.

In 1979, James moved to Manchester, New Hampshire, where he lived a peaceful, quiet life and found a spiritual home attending St. Joseph’s Church. His life was marked by steady strength, gentle presence, and enduring faith.

James was preceded in death by his Father Theodore Howard Sr., his Mother Rena Bell Gill-Thomas Howard, his brother Rev. Isaac Thomas, his sisters Elnora Thomas, Lerlene H. Wright, and Christine Howard as well as his niece LaToya Howard.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his brother Theodore Howard Jr. (Jean Elles), and his sisters Catherine Ann Williams (late James) and Verlene Howard. He also leaves behind several cousins, nieces, nephews, a great-niece, great-nephews, and many close friends and extended family members who loved him dearly.

Today, we honor James not only for the life he lived but also for the quiet courage he carried each day. His life reminds us that even the most peaceful journeys leave a powerful legacy of love, resilience, and grace.

Rest peacefully, James. You are forever loved and will never be forgotten.

SERVICES: Visitation will be 10:30am to 11:30am, Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 172 King Street, Boscawen. A funeral service will be held, 11:30 am, Wednesday, April 30, April 30, 2025, at the Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 172 King Street, Boscawen, with Deacon William Lavallee officiating. Interment will follow at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, Boscawen, NH.

For those who cannot attend in person, a livestream of the 11:30am funeral service will be available. Please register at https://my.forever.link/register/phaneuf-funeral-homes/james-randy-howard 

Family and friends are invited to attend.