James Dennis Howard

James Dennis Howard (1936 – 2025)

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of James Dennis “Denny” Howard, 88, of Westerville, Ohio. He was a cherished son, husband, father, grandfather, friend, and proud veteran who transitioned into eternal life on June 13, 2025. His life was a testament to hard work, generosity, and the power of laughter.

Born in Columbus, Ohio, on July 23, 1936, to the late Samuel and Ruth Howard, Denny was a 1954 graduate of North High School in Columbus.

After high school, Denny attended The Ohio State University, where he was the center for the football team under Coach Woody Hayes. He left early to serve in the United States Navy, but not before marrying the love of his life, Joanne Howard, on July 6, 1957, whom he had met during high school.

Denny served honorably in the Navy, where he initially pursued his love of flying by participating in flight school and went on to serve as a photographer on the USS Forrestal. His military service was just the beginning of a lifetime spent putting others first—whether in uniform, at work, or at home.

After the Navy, he returned to OSU and received his bachelor’s degree in journalism while working full-time to support his young family.

After his time in the service, Denny provided for his family with an insurance career, a career defined by dedication and resilience. He believed in earning his keep, showing up every day with purpose, never asking for more than he gave, and standing up for what he believed in. His family and friends admired his strength, determination, and loyalty, and his community benefited from his quiet acts of kindness, often to random strangers who needed a hand.

For over 40 years, Denny dedicated most of his Saturdays in the fall serving his beloved alma mater as a Black Hat Portal Usher for all the home OSU football games.

Denny loved keeping busy, whether working in the yard, doing crossword puzzles, or at various jobs during his retirement years, which he continued well into his 80s! Despite his tireless work ethic, Denny was never too busy to share a joke, flash a grin, or lighten the mood. His sense of humor was legendary—quick-witted, warm, and always well-timed. He had a gift for making people feel seen and heard.

Denny is survived by his loving and devoted wife of almost 68 years, Joanne Howard. He is also survived by sons Jeff (Kelly) Howard, Mark Howard, Kirby (Missy) Howard, grandchildren Jeffrey Gibbs, Bailey Howard, Nicholas Howard, Keaton Howard, and Emerson Howard, who will carry his legacy of compassion, perseverance, and laughter. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Peggy Riggle, and brother Robin “Butch” Howard.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Northwest Christian Church. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Capital City Hospice, 2800 Corporate Exchange Drive, Suite 170, Columbus, OH 43231, or visit www.capitalcityhospice.com.

Though he has left this world, Denny’s spirit lives on in every life he touched, with every smile he sparked, every hand he lent, and every story he told. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.