On Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023, John “Johnny” Howard Jr. departed this life with his devoted nephew, Peri Youngblood Jr, by his side. John was preceded in death by wives, Mary, Marylou and Betty; children, Joseph Leon, Corey and Charmaine; two grandchildren; parents, John and Lottie Mims Howard; brothers, James, Joseph, Leon and Jerry; and sisters, Lois Ann, Catherine and Mattie L. John was a member of St. Paul Baptist Church of Donora. He graduated from Donora High School, where he played football and ran track. John joined the U.S. Army in 1953, where he served as a medic and retired from service in 1956. He then worked at the steel mill in Christie Park and later worked for the Washington County Housing Authority as maintenance supervisor at Highland Terrace, (the Jets), where he retired after 30-plus years. He was lovingly called “Uncle Johnny” by many of the residents there. John had a gift of helps, which he used to instruct and teach the younger generation in carpentry, electrical and plumbing projects. He loved to cook, and he made the best potato salad and spaghetti. He took pride in decorating his home for the holidays. John is survived by a son, Robert John of Pittsburgh; daughters, Wendy and Tracey of Detroit, Mich.; stepdaughter, Ruby Jones of Finleyville; 15 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandson; a loving sister, Marylou Youngblood of Donora; a brother, Charles (Cynthia) Howard of Pittsburgh; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. Although Johnny has gone on to glory, his spirit and teachings will never be forgotten. Viewing will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023, with a funeral service at 1 p.m. with the Rev. Lee Haney officiating, all at St. Paul Baptist Church, 49 S. McKean Ave., Donora. Final celebration has been gently placed in the hands of HOUSE OF JACKSON MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 546 Thompson Ave., Donora, Karl Jackson, funeral director, 724-379-5420.
