The Howard Family
35th Annual Reunion
Saturday, September 7, 2013
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“New Vines from Strong Roots”
The Howard Family
229 Howard Hill Road—Riceboro, GA 31323
www.thehowardhill.com
Kenneth Howard, President
Wallace McDonald, Vice President
Shirley Howard, Secretary
Elijah Anderson, Treasurer
A Letter from the Reunion Committee President
Dear Family and Friends,
Welcome to our 35th Annual Howard Family Reunion. This is a
very special year for the Howard family as we celebrate ‘New Vines
from Strong Roots.” It is a remarkable milestone for our family
and I am especially honored that President Barack Obama took time
out of his extremely busy schedule, to send his personal greetings to
the us.
This is so powerful as I reflect on the prophet Jeremiah’s record
in the book of Jeremiah, chapter 18, verse 8, as he illustrates strong roots and new vines. This
scripture reminds me of the majestic oak trees on the Howard Hill Estate. The Howard Family
is like a flourishing tree that has strong and deep roots which continuously produce green leaves
and green vines regardless of the weather or age. As in nature, the root system serves to guarantee the existence of the whole tree. In fact, without roots a tree simply cannot survive.
We are delighted to recognize more than forty Howard Family members—New Vines—who
are either serving our country in the armed forces or enrolled in college. In addition, we will pay
tribute to our Strong Roots—those who are 70 years of age and older. They are the Howard
Family patriarchs and matriarchs who continue to pave the way for our New Vines.
In conclusion, as we gather to enjoy each other we will pay special tribute to my dear late
Aunt, Edna Mae O’Neal. The book of Job, chapter 14, verses 1and 2, gives us a reality that ‘a
man that is born of a woman is of a few days and full of trouble. He cometh forth like a flower
and is cut down.’ On March 24, 2013, the Lord dispatched one of His angels to pluck one of the
most precious roses out of the Howard Family garden. Mae was called from earth to glory and
no longer has to worry about the trouble of this world. We thank God for giving her 62 beautiful
years with the Howard Family. Today, let us make a commitment to laugh more, celebrate each
other and embrace our new vines while we honor our strong roots. Thank you for coming and
may God bless you.
With Love,
Kenneth K. Howard
B OARD OF C OMMISSIONERS
LIBERTY COUNTY
DONALD L. LOVETTE
CHAIRMAN
MARION STEVENS, SR.
100 Main Street, Suite 1320
HINESVILLE, GEORGIA 31313
(912) 876-2164
www.libertycountyga.com
DISTRICT 1
JUSTIN L. FRASIER
DISTRICT 2
CONNIE THRIFT
DISTRICT 3
PAT BOWEN
DISTRICT 4
GARY GILLIARD
DISTRICT 5
EDDIE J. WALDEN
DISTRICT 6
JOSEPH W. BROWN
COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
September 1, 2013
Greetings to the family and friends of the 35th Howard Family Reunion,
It is my honor to extend greetings on behalf of the Liberty County Board of Commissioners.
You are to be commended for maintaining, building and growing the Howard Family ties for 35
years. Your theme, New Vines from Strong Roots, is most appropriate for this occasion. I too
believe that we must invest in the present and acknowledge our past to ensure the preservation
of our proud (Howard) heritage.
I salute the vision of the planning committee to recognize those enrolled in college. It is true
that a mind is a terrible thing to waste. The roots of the family can only be strengthened when
this generation embraces and promotes the value of a higher education. The quality of life of the
Howard Family and of our society is inextricably tied to maximizing our learning experiences.
Our forefathers said “once you get it in your head, nobody can take it away.”
In addition, I salute the committee for recognizing those who serve our country. Their contributions to the preservation of our freedom are a great sacrifice they have made or make daily. For
that we say thank you.
Certainly we cannot forget those senior members of the Howard Family who are 70 and above.
In the vernacular of our youth you rock! Thank you for paving the way. Sit back and allow the
“vines” to shower you with love and appreciation. You deserve it all. We pray God’s richest
blessings upon you for life, health and strength.
In closing, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge that I am “Liberty County Proud” to acclaim that the time, effort and heart placed into hosting this high quality of family reunion activities in Liberty County is highly commendable. I congratulate the committee on a job well
done.
With best regards,
Donald L. Lovette
Donald L. Lovette, Chairman
Liberty County Board of Commissioners
“New Vines from Strong Roots”
Worship and Remembrance Service
Program
Mistress of Ceremony….…...……………...………………………………………..Sis. Yolanda Roberts
Opening Selection……...….………………………………………………….We’ve Come A Long Way
Scripture………...……………………………………………………………...Evangelist Selena Howard
Prayer ……………………………………………………………………………..Minister Michelle Clark
Welcome Address….………………………..……………………………….............Sis. Aaliyah Howard
Praise Dance………………………………………………………...The Howard Family Praise Dancers
Reading of the Family History……………..………………………….……………….Sis. Anitra Golden
Selection………………………………………………………………………….The Gospel Messengers
Legislative Resolution………………………………………………….State Representative Al Williams
Solo…………………………………………………………………………………..Bro. Tyriek Holmes
Memorial Tribute in Honor of Sis. Edna Mae O’Neal………………………….Refreshment Committee
Memorial Address……………………………………………………………Evangelist Beverly Howard
The Howard Family Scholarship………………………………………………..…...Sis. Shirley Howard
Introduction of the Speaker………………………………………………………..Bro. Willie Hudson, Jr.
Selection………………………………………………………………………….The Gospel Messengers
Speaker………..………………………………………………………………….Pastor Maurice Hudson
Word of Thanks/Presentations ………………………………………………….Deacon Kenneth Howard
Opening and Burial of Time Capsule
Blessing/Benediction ……….. ………………………………………...…………………………...Clergy
35th Family Reunion
Keynote Speaker
Pastor Maurice A. Hudson
Pastor Maurice A. Hudson is the son of Willie Hudson,
Jr. and Elaine Hudson. He is the youngest of four children, and accepted his calling into ministry at the age of
17. Maurice was ordained as pastor in 2005
under the
Kingdom Covenant Fellowship and God has called him
to birth out a new and upcoming ministry in Atlanta.
He is currently working on an undergraduate degree
from Liberty University.
Pastor Hudson is the proud father of three children,
Amauri, My’Kel and Chelsea; and the husband of his
beautiful wife, Lady Alaniya Hudson. Pastor Hudson is
a native of Brunswick, and now
resides in Atlanta.
In Loving Remembrance
Turn Again To Life
Although I have left you for
a while, be not like those
who mourn without hope and
who keep a long vigil of
grief.
For my sake turn again to life
and smile, setting thy heart
and trembling hand to do
something to comfort other
hearts.
Complete my unfinished
tasks and work and find my
joy therein; you will so find
that God will comfort you.
Mrs. Edna Mae Howard O’Neal
February 4, 1951 March 24, 2013
“New Vines from
Strong Roots”
THE HOWARD FAMILY HISTORY
The first book of the Holy Bible is Genesis. Genesis literally means “birth” or “beginning.” “In the
beginning, God created the Heaven and Earth.” The Howard Family’s longest documented history
begins with the marriage of Ben Howard and Priscilla Jones. Ben and Priscilla’s holy union thus
begins or gives birth to our revered Howard family heritage.
There are two terms that highly characterized Ben and Priscilla: they were hardworking and Godfearing. With these principles, they laid the foundation for rearing their children in a home filled with
love, respect, faith and determination.
God blessed Priscilla and Ben with six beautiful children and they taught their children that with faith
in God, all things were possible, even for children separated from the larger society by race and class.
Faith in God, Wisdom from God, and Sound Learning Experiences- these are three tools with which
they equipped their children to move the mountains that they would later encounter in their lives.
The Second Generation
Priscilla and Ben Howard’s children were (in the order of their births):
Rachel, Mob, William, Lonzo, Nelson, and Sarah.
All of their children were blessed to have children of their own, thus beginning the third (3 rd)
generation of the documented Howard progeny.
The Third Generation
As the years past and the Howard children grew and married, they were all blessed with fruit of their
own wombs and loins…
Rachel Howard married Jim Simmons and they were blessed with two children bearing the Howard family name: Irene Howard and Algertha Howard.
Mob Howard married Matilda Wynn and unto them nine children were born perpetuating the
Howard family name: Peter; Ben; Ophelia; Mob, Jr.; Edith; Clayton; Hessie; Rosa Lee; and
Gertrude.
William Howard married Eva LeCounte and were graced with four children honoring the Howard
family name: Willie; Annie Sarah; Alalia; and Lucille.
Lonzo Howard married Nora James and they produced two children gracing the Howard family
name: Priscilla and Sam.
Nelson Howard married Annie Lou Norman and brought forth two children carrying forth the
Howard family name:
Agnes and Nora (Butler).
Sarah Howard married Samuel Wynn; they were endowed with four children who esteemed their
mother’s family name:
Lewis Wynn; Marie Wynn; Samuel, Jr.; and Alonzo Wynn.
The Fourth Generation
Irene Howard married Wasa “Washie” Wynn. Six blessings came to them in: Leroy “Lee” (Howard);
Mary Ellen “Mae-Ellen”(Hudson); Joseph, Sr. “Joe”; Doretha; Rhyner (Parrish); and Herman “Monk.”
Algertha “Gerta” Howard married James LeCounte; Eight children graced their home: Clayton; Herbert, Sr.
“Shuppa”; Ruth “Monk” (Wrenfroe;) Plummie “Dar;” Isadore “Fudd;” Belfast “Bubba-Son;” Gertie B.
“Doll” (Towns); and Richard Lee, Sr. “Pa.”
Peter Howard married Edwina Bacon. Ten children blessed their lives: Peter, Jr. “Speedy;” Randolph;
Leola (Brown;) Johnnie, Sr.; Eddie Lee, Sr.; Charlie Joe, Sr. “Tot”; Theodore “Bubba;” David “Dave;”
Christopher; and Edna “Mae” (O’Neal.)
Ben Howard married Elizabeth “Quennie” LeCounte. Four children brought them joy: Georgia Mae “
Beauty” (Lowder;) Matilda “’Til” (Roberts;) Julius “Bubba;” and Ben, Jr. “Sonnie Boy.”
Ophelia “Miggy” Howard married Robert LeCounte. They were a giving aunt and uncle.
Mob Howard, Jr. married Cecelia Stevens. They were blessed with eight children: Jessie (Alvin;)
Booker T.; Wallace; John Henry; Dorothy (Stewart;) Nathaniel; Roger L.; and Charles.
Hessie Howard married Paul LeCounte. They were a loving aunt and uncle.
Rosa Lee Howard married Tony Frasier. Six children were bestowed upon them: Tony, Jr.; Leroy;
Edward; Walter; Willie; and Alneather.
Gertrude Howard married Gabe Wright. They were a nurturing aunt and uncle.
Willie Howard married Phyllis Gordon. Six blessings filled their home: Marie “Beedie” (Tyson;) Willie, Jr.;
Johnnie; Theodore “Nuga;” Barbara (Wilson;) and Rosa Lee (Richardson.)
Annie Sarah Howard married William Tyson: Two children graced their marriage: Nelson “Yank”
(Howard) and Vernell “Bruce” (Howard.)
Alalia Howard married John Curry Wilson: Their nine blessings were: Tommie; Leola “Sister;” Albert
“Buster;” Lawrence; Curry “Kurt;” Helen (Thomas;) Pearl; Nathaniel “Nay;” and Ernest “Bubba.”
Sam “Dewey” Howard married Chloe Roberts. They were blessed with: Kelsey, Sr.(Mells;) and Ossie Bell.
Agnes Howard married Simon Shephard. They were a cherished aunt and uncle.
Nora Butler married Julius Howard. They were graced with Hattie and Elijah (Anderson.)
Lewis Wynn married Margaret Wilkins. Three children added joy to their lives: Lewis, Sr.; Alma Marie
(O’Neal;) and Alonzo.
Marie Wynn married Freddie Alvin. Four children abounded in their home : George, Freddie Lee, Jr.;
Allen; and Nelson.
Samuel Wynn, Jr. married Janie Mae Brown. They were blessed with eight children: Hester (Brown;)
Samuel, Jr.; Randolph; William; Sarah Jane (Scott;) Carolyn; Lorenzo; and Earl.
Alonzo Wynn was blessed with one child, Josephine Jenkins.
We have taken a journey through time. We began with the root of the Howard’s Tree and have climbed
almost to the top. We have just covered five generations. We are proud today for we can honestly say that
the fine characters of Priscilla Jones and Ben Howard, the first, has been past down through each generation.
We’ve Come a Long Way . . .
BEFORE: Site of the Howard Family Pavilion—1995
...We’ have come a Long Way...2012
Ne
Timothy Jerome Taylor, III
August 5, 2013
S
from
t
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ong
Oldest family member
Julius “Bubba” Howard
April 1, 1921
w
New Vines...
Teyron Barrett, Savannah State University (GA)
Kelphe Blue, Fort Valley State University (GA)
Cameron Blue, Georgia Perimeter College (GA)
Trevon Brinkley, U.S. Air Force (AZ)
Allison Brown, Virginia College (GA)
Shanell Emory, U. S. Army Reserve
Eric Gadson, Point University (AL)
Anthony Hawkins, U.S. Air Force
Johnathan Horn, Jr., Kishwaukee College (IL)
Larry Howard, Jr., U.S. Army
Tiara Howard, Morris College (SC)
Victoria Howard, Miami-Dade Community College (FL)
Valerie Howard, Florida Career College (FL)
Precious Howard, Pinnacle Career Institute (GA)
Reggie Hubbard, Arts Academy University (CA)
Maurice Hudson, Liberty University (GA)
Terra Johnson, Drexel University (PA)
James Jones, Jr., Georgia Southern University (GA)
Joceyln Jones, U.S. Army
Ashley LeCounte, South Carolina State University (SC)
Janee' Shannon, Armstrong Atlantic State University (GA)
One generation shall commend your works to another,
and shall declare your mighty acts. Psalm 145.4
more New Vines...
Sequan Stanley, Wofford College (SC)
Hope Tyson, Georgia Southern University (GA)
Shamiya Wynn, Georgia Southern University (GA)
Joseph Wynn, Arkansas University (AR)
Marcus LeCounte, Savannah State University (GA)
Margaret “Lou” LeCounte-Johnson, Capella University (GA)
Jonathon Mallory ,North Central Texas College (TX)
Josh Mallory, University of North Texas (TX)
Elizabeth Mallory, Texas Woman's College (TX)
Brandi Mackey, Palm Beach State College (FL)
Chelsea Mells, Albany State University (GA)
Kayla Moses, Valdosta State College (GA)
Brittany Parland, U.S. Army Reserves
Jermaine Roberts, University of Alabama (AL)
Henry Parrish, U.S. Marine Corps
Henry Parrish, Jr., University of Florida (FL)
Lester “PJ” Rupert Wiley, Georgia Perimeter College (GA)
Angelina Wiley, Georgia Perimeter College (GA)
Garrett Williamson, Turner Seminary (GA)
Shemmeah Williamson, Florida A&M University (FL)
Jawann Wilson, U..S. Air Force
Eltrsia Wynn, University of Phoenix (GA)
One generation shall commend your works to another,
and shall declare your mighty acts. Psalm 145.4
Strong Roots
One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall
declare your mighty acts. Psalm 145.4
Lawrence Wilson
6-14-35
Helen Wilson Wright
5-12-40
Pearl “Babe” Wilson
7-14-42
Strong Roots
One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare
your mighty acts. Psalm 145.4
Johnny “Nugga” Howard 10-22-42
Willie “Bub” Howard 6-3-40
Marie “Beadie” Tyson 3-26-32
Strong Roots
One generation shall commend your works to another,
and shall declare your mighty acts. Psalm 145.4
Eddie Lee Howard, Sr.
4-8-39
Charlie Joe “Tot” Howard, Sr.
5-7-43
Leola “Zim” Howard Brown—Not pictured
Strong Roots
One generation shall commend your works to another,
and shall declare your mighty acts. Psalm 145.4
Ruth “Monk” Wrenfroe 7-9-29
Wallace “Sallie” Howard 4-5-33
John Henry “Mink” Howard 4-5-31—Not pictured
Strong Roots
One generation shall commend your works to another,
and shall declare your mighty acts. Psalm 145.4
Herman “Monk” Wynn
Joe L. Roberts 12-1-40
Joseph Wynn, Sr. 10-31-35—Not pictured
THE HOWARD FAMILY
SCHOLARSHIP
The Howard Family is very proud of our young adults who have met the challenge and earned
their high school diploma or GED. In 2009, the Howard Family established the Howard Family
Scholarship award of $500.00 to assist deserving seniors with college expenses. In addition,
all seniors will receive monetary gifts. The Howard Family has contributed over $5,000 in
scholarships and monetary gifts to deserving graduates to date.
Annually, the scholarship recipient is
selected by a random drawing during the
Annual Family Reunion.
Each May, a Senior Gala is held to present
the scholarship and other gifts to all
seniors. Students are encouraged to invite
their families and friends to attend this
special event at the Howard Hill Estate.
Scholarship guidelines and requirements:
-Must be a member of the Howard family.
-Must be a high school senior attending public schools or GED program.
-Must present proof of enrollment at an accredited college or technical school.
-Provide a letter of appreciation to be read at the following family reunion.
THE HOWARD FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP
2013 Scholarship Recipient
Shamia Wynn
Shamia is a graduate of McIntosh County Academy, and currently attends Georgia
Southern University. She is the daughter of Joseph Wynn, and the granddaughter
of Joseph and Louise Wynn, Sr.
2013 Graduates
Mercedes Anderson
Clayton State University
Jerome Howard
Liberty County High
Eric Gadson
Windsor Forest High
Jermaine Roberts, Jr.
Liberty County High School
Kadesha Shannon
Bradwell Institute
2013 Howard Family Reunion
“New Vines from Strong Roots”
Reunion Officers
Kenneth Howard
President
Wallace McDonald
Vice President
Shirley Howard
Secretary
Elijah Anderson, Jr.
Treasurer
Refreshment Committee
Cynthia Roberts (Chair)
Lottie Stewart
Linda Howard
Rosa Lee Richardson
Ophelia Howard
Virginia Wallace
Birdie Mae Brown
Elmenia Wilkins
Mary Mullice
Betty Frasier
Shirley Howard
Cynthia Frazier
Doris Barrett
Scholarship Committee
Shirley Howard
Darlene Ward
Tanya Beverly
Willie Hudson, Jr.
Lottie Stewart
Kenneth K. Howard
Wallace McDonald
Selena Howard
Marvin Howard
Elijah Anderson, Jr.
Linda Harris
Charlie Joe Howard, Sr.
Wendy Richardson
Chris Howard
Kenneth Mells
2013
Howard Family Reunion
The Howard Hill Estate
Riceboro, Georgia
www.thehowardhill.org