Frank Howard

Frank E Howard was born to Frank O and Grace Howard on October 2, 1951. He grew up, fell in love and married Debby Leach on August 7, 1970. Their family tree grew as their daughters Julie (John Rochester) and Mica (Brad Mitchell) added grandchildren and extended family to their tree, making years of good memories and full holiday tables.

Frank never met a stranger and would offer his phenomenal construction skills to anyone in need. Whether planting a flower, fixing a grandchild's broken toy, laying up elaborate brick walls or building an entire house, he would take it on. Even with all his skills, he would still be quick to pick up the phone and call on the opinions of others when he was planning out projects.

When he wasn’t building and fixing things, he was helping people. He would talk about God. He’d tell how God used his life experiences to make him who he was. He encouraged others to do the same. Years ago, he read a book, When the Game is Over, it all goes back in the box. He often referred to the principles it spoke of. It talked about how life is like a game, and when it’s over, “All the tokens, game pieces, and prizes are left behind when you walk away from the table. The only real “winnings” you claim and keep are your own soul and the love you have for Christ and each other.” Dad believed this and taught this to his family and friends. He didn’t take any of his tools, keys or money with him, but he had a legacy of faith to leave behind and a heart ready to go forward with! Frank believed that while he was still a sinner, Christ gave his life for him so that his sins would be forgiven, (Romans 5:8), and because his sins had been forgiven he would have eternal life through Jesus! (John 3:16)

On April 12, 2024, our hearts broke when dads body died, AND we celebrated because we knew his soul was welcomed into heaven by our Risen Savior! “ the King will say...(to him) 'Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. (Matthew 25:34)

We invite you to join us at St. Paul’s Church in Gifford. On May 10, 2024 the doors will be opened at 6:30 pm, services will begin at 7 pm. Together we will mourn the man we no longer can see, hear and touch as well as celebrate together knowing that the same Savior that that rescued Frank from death will rescue us and we will be together again. “Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many rooms; if that were not so, I would have told you, because I am going there to prepare a place for you. John 14:1-2

Memorial contributions may be made to:

St. Paul's Lutheran Church

108 E Church St

Gifford, IL 61847

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frank Howard, please visit our floral store.