Obituary of Donald Howard

Donald Howard, 73, of Ocala, Florida passed away October 10, 2021, at his Ocala, Florida home. He was the husband of Georgia Howard for 53 years. Donald was born in Cooperstown, New York a son of the late Lavern and Joan Howard. He was retired from the U.S. Army after service 23 years at the rank of Master Sergeant E-8. He was a Vietnam veteran with numerous awards, National Defense Service Medal; Meritorious Service Medal; Vietnam Campaign Medal; Army Commendation Medal; Overseas Ribbon; NCO Professional Development Ribbon; The Good Conduct Medal (7th award); and Army Service Ribbon. He was also given The Polish Labor Service Units of the US Army, Europe Commemorative Badge; Physical Security Inspector; and the 95th MP Battalion Certificate of Appreciation. He was a Military Policeman, moving many times, Germany, S. Korea, and many states. He was a drill sergeant for 3 years in Alabama. He assisted the National Guard Armory in Missouri; he was a Physical Security Inspector which required much travel to inspect facilities. Upon retirement he was a deputy sheriff; EMT; Parole and Probation officer in Tennessee and moved to West Virginia. After working in that field, he worked with the Martinsburg VA center assisting incarcerated veterans. Donald was very outgoing and a friend to all. He lived a full life and touched many. A wonderful husband and father. He is sorely missed by all. Donald will be deeply missed by his wife, Georgia Howard of Ocala, FL He is survived by his children, Donna, Matthew, Carol all of Tennessee and grandchildren: Christa of South Carolina; Brandon of Kentucky; Ryan of Virginia; Dominique of Delaware and Matthew, II; Kaila and DJ and step granddaughter, Chantel all of Tennessee. He has16 great grandchildren and many step grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Ronald Howard lives in Otego, NY with his many nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, 9695 SW 110th Street, Ocala, FL 34481 on Saturday, October 16, 2021, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 AM followed by Military Honors. Condolences may be left at Hiers-Baxley.com.