Terrance Howard

Terrance Leo Howard was born early Sunday morning at 5:35 a.m., May 29, 1966; weighing in at 6 pounds and 12.5 ounces. He was a very quiet baby, and his demands were simple. After much discussion amongst his three siblings,Terry was accepted into the “Dynasty of the Howards.”

In 1984 Terry graduated from Woodward Wilson High School (currently known as Ida B. Wells-Barnett High School). Terry loved singing and could play the cornet. While living in Los Angeles, Terry and his siblings would often sing at church. Terry and Stephanie sang at a wedding and people thought they were Bebe and Cece Winans. Everyone that knew Terry knew he was very analytical and had the gift of gab. The very gift that got him in so much trouble in school. He just talked too much!

Terry served in the United States Armed Forces as a United States Marine, and he was so proud to share his experiences. He was passionate about being a chef. This would explain why he represented himself as a great barbeque expert for family and friends; calculating how many pieces of meat you could get off one slab of ribs and how to get the most for your money. It was down to a science. . . Needless to say, he truly was the greatest chef. His barbeque, sweet potato pie, macaroni & cheese with crab was bar none.(Can the family say Amen!)

He worked in public transportation for twenty-five (25) years. From 1999 until July 2013 Terry was employed by Portland Public Schools Transportation Department/Laidlaw as a Trainer, 3rd Party Tester, Cover Driver, and a Shop Steward. He also operated “light rail” through Tri-Met, and was a union representative serving in several positions. . .Amalgamated Transit Union Division 757.

Terry took pride in life. He loved debating about any subject and would challenge you, simply to have the opportunity to strike up a good conversation. Did you know he always declared he was a pastor and talked about tithing and being faithful? In fact, the name of his church was, “The Church of What’s Happening Now.” His mom always said to him, “Terry, I think you missed your calling.”

A gentle soul who loved to sing and quote poetry.  His love for God and His people. That’s how Terry will be remembered. . . A person who had a phenomenal, unconditional love for his family and friends, the prides of his life-his children and granddaughter, extended children, including his foster sons who remained connected and affectionally called him “Pops.”  We’ll never forget his ability to fix anything electronic.  Oh yes, and his concerned frustration with his mother who was always forgetting her new password; for the 12th time (MOM!). His cousins, well people often thought they were the brothers, and the brothers were the cousins. So, they were known as the “brother-cousins, cousin-brothers.”

This and so much more was our beloved Terry, who was preceded in death by his father: Joe L. Howard, and his beloved 12-month-old son: Marcus Emilo.

Surely, those that remain and will keep his memory alive are his daughter: Kara A. Hubbard (Texas), son: TreAustin (Michigan), and granddaughter.  His loving mother: Laura Howard and 3 siblings: Stephanie Wyatt, Earl Howard & Tracy Howard. His auntie-mommas: Janice Crosby, Janet Warren, Katherine Roberson, Eleanor Parker and Aunt Joysalayne Parker.  His uncle-fathers: Pastor Charles Parker and Pershing Parker; a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends galore from various walks of life.

We love him, but God loves him best. . . Terry, we release you into the waiting arms of the Lord, and those who have gone on before you. . . Rest easy, we will “See You In the Morning.”

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