Earl William "Bill" Howard, Jr.

July 11, 1956 - September 19, 2020

Earl William “Bill” Howard, Jr. passed away on Saturday, September 19, 2020. Bill was born on July 11, 1956, in Raleigh, NC to the late Earl William and Juanita Callihan Howard. After graduating from Campbell University and attending Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, he called Columbia, SC his home. There he served as the Chief Hearing Officer for the Juvenile Parole Board before his retirement. He had a host of friends and “family” in Columbia who affectionately called him Uncle Bill and Big Bill. He will be remembered for his humor, love of life, laughter, hugs, love, and care for the less fortunate as well as his beautiful voice. Bill’s magnificent tenor voice was his gift to bring honor and glory to God. Most will fondly recall him singing “The Midnight Cry.” Bill is survived by siblings Susan H. Bettini (Rick) of Gibsonville, NC, Cindy H. Slaughter (Bob) of Mount Olive, NC, Tim Howard (Lynn) and Amy H. Hovermale of Angier, NC. and his beloved nieces and nephews, Kristi Bettini, Rob Slaughter, Meghan Brown, Dana Sims, Stephanie Howard, Shannon Olive, Ethan Hovermale, Tory Sanders, and Jennifer Devereaux. Great niece Ella Marie and great-nephews Will, Jake, and Isaac loved to visit with Uncle Bill when passing through Columbia. Janice Bowman and family were Bill’s Columbia family, who loved, adored, and pampered Bill. His loving and supportive First Baptist Church Choir, Sunday School class, and many friends and leaders are included in his extended family. The compassionate care of the professional healthcare team at Baptist Hospital is profoundly appreciated. Memorials in Bill’s name may be made to the First Baptist Church Adult Choir, 1306 Hampton Street, Columbia, SC 29201, or a charity of your choice. A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date.