Harvey "Ray" Howard

Ray Howard passed from this life into the arms of Jesus on Tuesday December 14, 2021. Ray was born in Exeter, California on September 2, 1945 To Glen Howard and Lilia Ruth (née) Anderson. He grew up in California and graduated from East Bakersfield High school in 1963. Upon graduation he became a cook at the Farmer Johns Pancake house where he earned money to help his mother support their large family. Working and attending City College he enlisted into the United States Air Force in 1965. He was stationed in Minot, North Dakota where he eventually deployed to South East Asia during the Vietnam War. He achieved the rank of Sergeant E4 and was a field Mechanic. He was honorably discharged in 1969 and it was then that he married the love of his life Anita Stewart. They were married 52 years and blessed with two sons. After his military service he attended College of the Sequoias and developed his trade to become a Master Machinist. His career started at Bostich then on to Sequoia Pacific Systems where he worked for 25 years. He retired from Leprino Foods after 14 years where he was named employee of the year and given various honors during his time there. Ray loved to work and there was literally nothing he couldn’t fix or rebuild. His skills and talent saved his employers millions of dollars over the years. In addition to his work Ray was a family man who loved his wife, his children, his grandchildren his grandparents and his Mother. He loved the Lord and had such a tender heart when it came to discussing Jesus and all he has done for us. Ray is survived by his wife Anita, Son Matthew Howard and wife Jaimee, their three daughters Haley, Ella & Mya of Visalia. His son Chad Howard and wife Cambria, grandson Spencer of Millersville, Mo. Granddaughter - Madison Thomas and husband Britton of East Prairie, Missouri. Brother Richard Howard and wife Barbara of Gardnerville, NV. Sisters Glenda Funk, Christine Howard, Kathleen Hayton and husband Jerry of Visalia. Carolyn Webb and husband Dan of Vancouver,WA. 5 nephews, 1 niece,3 great nieces and 2 great nephews. He was preceded in Death by his father Glenn, Mother Ruth and brother Freddy. Rays service will be held graveside on Tuesday Dec 28th at 12 noon