Robert Dell Howard, 92 of Elba, AL, departed this life Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at Serenity South in Elba, Alabama.
Robert Howard was born on February 5, 1932, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to William and Betty Howard. Shortly after his birth, the Howard family relocated to Michigan, where Robert spent his formative years. He graduated from Portland High School.
Following high school, Robert began his college education but soon felt a deeper calling to serve his country. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and was deployed to Korea during the Korean War. While serving in combat, Robert demonstrated remarkable bravery and resilience, earning two Purple Hearts for his service and sacrifices.
After his military service, Robert's met the love of his life, Virginia, in Washington, D.C. The two were married there and began their sixty-nine (69) year journey together in Michigan. Robert pursued higher education at Michigan State University, where he graduated with a degree in criminal justice. This accomplishment marked the beginning of a distinguished 37-year career with State Farm Insurance Company, where Robert's dedication and integrity earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike.
In 1994, Robert retired from State Farm, and he and Virginia moved to Elba, Alabama, to enjoy their golden years.
Survivors include: Siblings - Bonnie Weber, Jack Howard, Jill Figge; Children: Valerie (Mike) McGuire, Elba, AL, Kelley (Gordon) McElroy, Mohnton, PA, Kevin (Marian) Howard, Arley, AL, David (Cheryl) Howard, Franklin, TN; Grandchildren: Taylor (Kim) Kim McGuire, Birmingham AL Hunter (Emily) McGuire, Birmingham AL, Molly (Stephen) Walker, Brantley Alabama, Lindsay (Harrison) Briggs Waxhaw, NC, Lauren (James) Leith Mt. Juliet, TN, Nikki (Dan) Bono, Henderson, TN, Lindsay (Matt) Morris Buford, Georgia, Kyle (Brooke) McElroy, Virginia Beach, VA, Courtney (Adam Laurenzo) Howard, Salt Lake City, UT. Sidney (Ed Songaila) Los Angeles, CA, Colin Howard, Detroit, MI, Hailey Howard, Franklin, TN and  sixteen (16) beautiful great grandchildren.
Robert was preceded in death by his wife Virginia Wicker Howard, parents William and Betty Howard, sisters Pat Lowery and Linda Kirschenmen.
Funeral services will be held from Hayes Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, December 13, 2024 at 2:00 PM with Rev. Bryan Simoneaux and Min. Nathan Elliott officiating. Committal services will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery. Visitation will be at Hayes Funeral Home on Friday, December 13, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to Elba Methodist Church 503 Davis Street, Elba, Alabama 36323.