07/28/2025
Howard – Burl “Alan” Howard, age 62, of Middleburg, Florida went to his Heavenly Home on July 25, 2025, at Haven Hospice Custead Care Center in Orange Park with his loving family by his side. Alan was born in Orange Park, Florida on October 17, 1962, to the late Burl D. Howard and Patsy Thomas Howard. He was raised in Jacksonville, Florida and graduated from Nathan B. Forrest High School in 1980. From an early age, Alan had a strong work ethic and determination to succeed. While in school, he served at Shell gas station and at United Dealer Services. He worked for a short season at Florida Wire & Cable before embarking on his lifelong career in underground utilities as a Foreman with A.J. Johns Incorporated. Alan was loyal, dedicated to his work, and was proudly employed for 42 years. More than anything, Alan was a family man and a believer in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He married his best friend and forever companion, Ruth T. Stilwell, on August 23, 1986. They shared a beautiful life filled with immersible blessings. Alan was a devoted husband, loving father, brother, son, and friend who cherished time with his family. He had a deep love for his family and his life was centered and rooted in Christ. He used every opportunity to witness the good news, share the gospel, grow Gods Kingdom and reach those who are lost. Alan also had a love for the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who enjoyed the peacefulness of nature and found great joy in every moment he was gifted. Alan attended Harbor Baptist Church in Fleming Island. He thoroughly enjoyed worshipping and learning alongside his amazing church family. Alan was a true treasure, deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Burl D. “Pap Paw” Howard and Patsy Thomas “Mam Maw” Howard; and his niece, Emilee Petteway.
Alan is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Ruth Howard of Middleburg, FL; son, Joshua Howard of Middleburg, FL; siblings, Sharon (Harold) Barton, Stephanie (Ronald) Kerce, James “Brad” Howard, and Teresa (Robert) Hurlbert; along with many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and many friends.
A Celebration of Alan’s Life will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 11:00 am at Harbor Baptist Church, 1120 Clay Street, Fleming Island, FL 32003 with Reverend Kevin Holden and Pastor Warren Chesser officiating. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ferreira Funeral Services, 1320 Chaffee Road South, Jacksonville, FL, 32221, 904-378-7777. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book.
