William J. Howard, Jr.

William J. Howard, Jr., born to the late William J. Howard, Sr. and the late Evelyn L. Howard on September 15, 1953, transitioned from this life on Monday, October 3, 2022 at Portsmouth Naval Medical Center.

William was born in Denver, CO and raised abroad in Japan and in Hampton with his family as his father was a member of the United States Air Force. He continued his father's military legacy and joined the United States Army directly out of high school where he served almost 22 years in the 5/17th Calvary, 2nd Infantry Division before retiring. His tenure with the Army took him all over the world to places that included Germany, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and Panama where he met and married Sheila N. Hill on February 19, 1977.

Upon his retirement from the Army, William continued his career in food service management for a number of decades before retiring for a second time. William enjoyed hosting family events and was well known for his skills as a chef and baker in the kitchen. He also enjoyed spending time with his wife and family, reading, studying, cars, computers, and cell phones. He was an avid collector of new gadgets and technology and enjoyed being on the cutting edge of the next new thing.

William leaves to honor his memory: his loving and devoted wife of 45+ years, Sheila N. Howard of Gloucester, VA; two daughters, Sheila Hill of Baltimore, MD and Tia Lunsford (Thomas) of Richmond, VA, one son Rafael Hill (Rosaura) of Killeen, TX, one brother, Larry Howard; three sisters, Denise Howard (Nashville, TN), Rhoda Howard, and Mary Francis “Frankie” Howard (both from Hinesville, GA); grandchildren, Shelly Hill, Raphael “Lito” Hill, Jr., Shania Hill (all from Killeen, TX), Lauren Barnard (Phoenix, AZ), Thomas “T2” Lunsford, II, and Taryn Lunsford (both from Richmond, VA), and a host of other relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held 2pm Wednesday, October 12, 2022 at Shivers Funeral Chapel. Viewing will take place from 9am - 2pm prior to the funeral service on Wednesday. Please keep the Howard family in your thoughts and prayers.