Herbert Michael Howard , son of the late William Howard and Bernice Brown of Rock Castle, Virginia, departed this world to join the love of his life, Salome Ann Freeman Howard, on December 20, 2018.

Born on November 2, 1926, almost a century ago, Herb received his diploma from Pocahontas High School in Powhatan, Virginia.  He was a family farmer of modest means with his brothers, William and James; sisters Agnes and Mary "Boo," all predeceased, but a family reunited in the Gracious Arms of God.

Answering the call of his nation, Herb joined the United States Army .  He was a member of the 6975 ^th Infantry Regiment in World War II, delivering supplies, food, and personnel in the European Theater of Operations in Germany.  He was awarded the Army of Occupation Medal , the European–African–Middle Eastern Campaign Medal , and the World War II Victory Medal .  Herb often spoke of the harrowing experiences of that period and was proud of his contribution.

After the war, he returned to his beloved, Rock Castle, Virginia.  Little did he know, he would meet another spitfire, a recent graduate of Xavier University, Salome Ann Freeman.  It was the beginning of a love affair that spanned more than 54 years. They were married in this very church in 1950. Salome left this earth in 2004, however, their love continued and was so strong that he left the home just as she managed it until it was time for him to join her 14 years later.

Herb retired from the Naval Ordinance Station in Indian Head, Maryland after 43 years.  He hauled munitions, supplies, and naval personnel across the country; and retired as a dispatcher.

He cherished his work with the NAACP as a treasurer; his work on the Charles County Liquor Board; and most importantly his love affair with St. Joseph Catholic Church and fellow parishioners.

Herb loved fishing and his Washington Redskins! He was absolutely happiest on the water; when the Redskins beat the Dallas Cowboys; or watching his favorite western and war movies. In his later years, he looked forward to every fishing trip.  There was always a smile on his face and laughter in the air.  Many thanks to Peggy Scherman and Michael Celentano for keeping that dream a reality.

Herb and Salome never had children of their own, but their hearts were as huge as their personalities and contributions to the community in which they lived.  They opened their home to six foster children. Preceded in death by sons: Grant M. Richardson, Jr., Michael Richardson, and Gerald Pratt.  Survived by sons: Andre Boulware, Edward Boulware, and Reginald Hackett; as well as three exchange students from Guatemala: Erick, Roger, and Patrillo Sandoval.  Between Herb, Salome, and her sister, Madge Wilson, they helped raise 13 foster children combined.

In addition to his sons, Herb was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Colin Pratt.  He is survived by his grandchildren: Grant M. Richardson, III and Susan and Angela Pratt; great-grandchildren: Marcus, Trey, and Tierra Richardson; nieces and nephews: JoAnn, Jimmie, Catherine, James Jr., and Audrey (predeceased); great-nieces and nephews: Dwight, Doreen, Kelly, Jamey, Robert, Asha, and Tameeka; great-great nieces: Danisha, Kymari, Mia, Maleeya, Meghan (predeceased), and McKenzie.

To his extended family of countless cousins and friends, as well as fellow parishioners, Herb will always be here to guide us.  You may even feel a slight brush on your arm as he ushers you to your seat. This was one of his most enjoyable moments, here, at St. Joseph Catholic Church.

He will be missed as much as he is loved!

Viewing will be, 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., Friday, January 4, 2019, and 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 5, 2019, in the Chapel of Thornton Funeral Home, P.A, 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, Maryland 20640. Mass of Christian Burial, 11:00 a.m., St. Joseph Catholic Church, 4590 Pomfret Way, Pomfret, Maryland 20675.

Interment, St. Joseph Catholic Church Cemetery, 4590 Pomfret Way, Pomfret, Maryland 20675.