Thomas Howard, Jr.

On September 11, 1952, in Bainbridge, GA, Rena Guy and Thomas Howard Sr. was blessed with their firstborn and beloved son, Thomas Howard Jr.

Thomas was educated in the Decatur County School System where he graduated Class of 1972. He was a superb athlete in Track & Field, but most of all Football. He made history by being the first black male to play football for the Bainbridge High SchoolBearcats in which he excelled as the running back. Because of his accomplishments in the sport, he was known by friends and classmates as “Touchdown”.

He was employed with Elberta Crate and Box Company for several years until his health declined.Thomas was an avid fan of the Los Angeles Lakers and the Pittsburgh Steelers. He enjoyed traveling and watching sports and western movies in his spare time.  

On Thursday, November 17, 2022, God called Thomas home to rest. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus tells us, “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest”. Thomas gave up his mortal form and the burdens of this world and found peace with his heavenly father.  He will be lovingly remembered by his Stepmother: Ethel Howard. Children: Pamela (Jordan) Finn, Brian Howard, Casey (Meshach) Derico, Shameka Howard, Danielle Howard, Devin Howard, and Miracle Howard.  Sisters: Ester Jean Harper, Lula Ford-Ross, Charlotte Howard, and LaShonda Ford. Brothers: Anthony Joe Johnson, Leroy Ford, Eddie Ford, Andrew Howard, Henry Howard, Ivey Howard, Thomas Howard, Kenneth Howard and a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and other relatives. He is preceded in death by his parents Rena Guy Ford and Thomas Howard Sr., brothers Ralph Ford, Charlie Howard, Lawrence Howard, and grandson Jacari Jones.

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