Donald Eugene Howard Jr.

Donald Eugene Howard Jr. age 71 of Springfield went home to be with his Lord & Savior Jesus Christ on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at Springfield Regional Medical Center while surrounded by his loving family.  He was born the son of Donald E. Sr. & Esther L. (Cooper) Howard on March 9, 1952, in Columbus, Ohio.  He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers Wayne Anthony, Stephen Lee, Daryl, Phillip Howard; sisters Tina R. Storey, Kimberly K. Howard, & Tammy R. Furr; daughter Charice Dione Lewis; granddaughter Kiarrah N. Young.  Donald is survived by his beloved wife Charmaine; son David L. Dixon of Maine; daughters DeLana (Clayton) Loveless of Springfield, Donnika Eugenia (Marvin Harper) Howard of Springfield; brothers Michael (Iris) Howard of Springfield, Mark (Nancy) Howard of Springfield, Kenny Howard of Sidney, Brian (Michelle) Howard of Dayton, Arnold (Ann) Howard of Springfield; sisters Roxann Whitmore of Arizona, & Mia (Steve) Davenport of Springfield; brothers in law Paul Storey, Norris Burton, Craig Portman, Duane Burton, Dana Lee  (Angie) Burton, Dale Maurice (Ann) Burton; son in laws Stephan (Dawn) Akram Sr., & Troy (Paula) Lewis Sr.;  grandchildren Troy Howard, Stephana Akram, Dale Stephens, Andraez Howard, Stephanie Akram, Anthony K. Walker Jr., Tamarra Lewis, & Gregory Howard – Smoot; 14 great grandchildren, & 1 great great grandchild; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, & a host of friends.  Donald was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, mentor, coach, & friend.  He will be missed by all of those who love him.  Donald was a member of the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving his country.  Donald was a hard worker & worked in several local factories.  He was known around town as a jack of all trades, & was willing to put in the hard work, to make sure his family was well taken care of.  He was Pentecostal by faith, & never met a stranger.  Donald was a sports fanatic, cheering  on his Ohio State Buckeyes, Cleveland Browns, & Cincinnati Reds.  For many years Donald was affectionately known around town as “Coach”, Donald gave up countless hours to coach his children along with countless other kids in our area.  In his spare time, he enjoyed bowling, playing softball, & volunteering with our local MRDD.  Most of all he enjoyed spending quality time with his family.  A gathering of friends & family will be held on Thursday, June 29, 2023 from 2:30PM – 3PM at RICHARDS, RAFF, & DUNBAR MEMORIAL HOME 838 E. High St. Springfield, Ohio where a memorial service will be held at 3PM with Pastor Charles Cooper officiating.  Expressions of sympathy may be left at www.richardsraffanddunbar.com