Jimmie Alexander Howard Sr.

With profound sorrow, we remember Jimmie A. Howard, Sr., who departed this earth unexpectedly, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories. He was a devoted son, loving father, proud grandfather, caring brother, beloved uncle and loyal friend whose spirit enriched every life he encountered. Born on January 6, 1940, to the late Dewitt "Pop" and Lillie Howard, Jimmie was the youngest of seven children and the last surviving sibling. He was preceded in death by his parents; his six siblings, Oricca Palmer, Jacob D. Howard Ir., Doris H. Wallace, Harold H. Howard Sr., George M. Howard, and Lillie M. Cox; and his second wife, Mary Howard. Jimmie was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System and was a proud graduate of Carver Vocational Technical High School, Class of 1959, where he studied in the Trade Machine Shop program. While at Carver, he was active in the Male and Mixed Choirs, a member of the first Carver Swim Team, and a standout athlete on the Track and Field Team. Among his many accomplishments, he made history in 1958 when Carver became one of the first Black schools to enter the M.S.A. Track and Field competition, where he was the undefeated High and Low Hurdles State Champion. He also heroically saved a classmate's life during swim class a reflection of his lifelong compassion and courage. During his time at Carver, he met and married his high school sweetheart, Shirley, and together they were blessed with two children, Jimmye Jr. and Terry, whom he affectionately called 'Princess.' Terry held a very special place in her father's heart, not only as his daughter but as the family's first granddaughter after ten grandsons a title that brought him a joy all its own. Later in life, he married Mary Howard, with whom he shared many happy years until her passing. Jimmie dedicated over 35 years of service to Westen Electric, later known as AT&T and Lucent Technologies, where he was admired for his dedication, dependability, and commitment to excellence. His work led him to relocate to Omaha, Nebraska, where he continued his career with Lucent Technologies before retiring in 2000 and returning home to Baltimore. A dedicated community servant, Jimmie volunteered as a Baltimore Recreation and Parks official from 1968 to 1976, umpiring baseball and refereeing basketball. He also coached for Woodlawn Little League for ten years, mentoring countless young athletes in baseball, basketball, and football. Jimmie was a man who cherished family and community above all else. He delighted in spending time with his son, Jimmye, and his nephews, always speaking proudly of their many accomplishments, and celebrating the educational achievements of his daughter, Terry. One of his greatest joys was collecting and treasuring photographs of Terry and his granddaughters, Tiara and Sabie, as they explored the world each image a testament to the love, pride, and happiness they brought into his life. With his easygoing spirit, warm sense of humor, and love for meaningful conversation, Jimmie brought joy to everyone around him and was a friend to all who knew him. He leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted children, Jimmye A. Howard Jr., Dr. Terry Howard Gresham, and Kimberly Stokes, along with his beloved grandchildren, Tiara Sabrie, Jimmye A. Howard III, and Sabian Terreè. He also leaves to cherish his memory his devoted godson, Judge Sylvester Cox, his sister-in-law Ellen Howard, and a host of nephews, great nephews and nieces, cousins, and friends too numerous to name. Jimmie will be fondly remembered for his blunt honesty, stubborn streak, and playful pride in being "the baby" of the family; traits that made him both unforgettable and deeply loved. He could always be counted on to show up, whether to support, celebrate, or simply be present for the people he loved. He was admired for his sharp sense of style, always taking pride in his appearance. Equally unforgettable was his deep love for his family, which continues to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Tributes

Jimmie Alexander Howard Sr.

January 6, 1940 - October 9, 2025