Roy Lee Howard, age 79, of Ypsilanti Township, Michigan, made his transition peacefully at home on June 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on July 28, 1946, in Jacksonville, Texas, to Willie and Martha (Moss) Howard.

Roy was the youngest of seven children and was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Earlene, Leonard, Willie Lee, Walter Lee, Mary Louise, and Charles.

An exceptional student from an early age, Roy attended Jacksonville Independent School District, where he often ranked at the top of his class. A gifted mathematics student, he earned recognition in state and regional math competitions while attending Frederick Douglass High School. He was also a talented athlete, participating in track and field and helping lead his team to state championships.

Following his graduation in 1964, Roy proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force. After completing basic training in El Paso, Texas, he served as an Electrical Civil Engineering Specialist. His military assignments included Kincheloe Air Force Base near Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, temporary duty in Vietnam and Guam, and his final assignment at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska. He received an honorable discharge in August 1968.

After his military service, Roy began a distinguished career with Michigan Bell, later known as AT&T. Through dedication, hard work, and outstanding leadership, he advanced into upper management, overseeing several districts before retiring in 2000 after more than 30 years of service.

In March 1996, Roy met the love of his life and soulmate, Collette (Sims) Howard. They were united in marriage on June 22, 2001, in Las Vegas, Nevada, and built a beautiful life together centered on faith, family, and adventure. They built a loving blended family that included two sons and one daughter, and together were blessed with seven grandchildren.

Roy enjoyed bowling and coaching Detroit-area softball teams. During his military years, he especially enjoyed playing basketball and ping pong. Together, Roy and Collette shared a passion for travel, visiting six of the seven continents and creating treasured memories on more than twenty cruises. From their honeymoon in Korea and Japan to adventures throughout Spain, Portugal, Australia, New Zealand, Egypt, and beyond, they embraced every opportunity to explore the world together.

A devoted member of Christian Love Fellowship Ministries International Church in Ypsilanti, Roy faithfully served as an unofficial greeter, warmly welcoming worshippers each Sunday with his kind smile and genuine spirit.

Known to family and friends as a "human calculator," Roy possessed an extraordinary mind and an insatiable love of learning. He was an avid student of world history and geography and a devoted fan of Jeopardy! , often amazing those around him with his incredible knowledge and ability to recall facts from virtually every corner of the globe. He was also known for his exceptional sense of style, quick wit, infectious smile, and ability to bring people together. Roy especially loved the music of Frankie Beverly and Maze and often requested that "Thank You" be played as a heartfelt expression of appreciation for those he loved and cherished.

In early March 2026, Roy was diagnosed with Stage IV bladder cancer, a condition believed to be connected to his exposure to Agent Orange during his military service in Vietnam and Guam. He faced his illness with remarkable strength, courage, and dignity until the very end.

Roy leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife and soulmate, Collette Howard; sons, Damien Howard (Nicole) and Donte Howard; beloved daughter, Jasmine Booker (fiancé Michael Campbell); grandchildren, Tayla Howard, Talyssia Alford, Damien Howard Jr., Jaida Howard, Dreylen Howard, Julian-Aquil Booker, and Joseph Booker; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to everyone who visited, called, prayed, provided meals or funds for meals, and offered support and companionship during Roy's final months. Your kindness, generosity, and unwavering love brought comfort to Roy and his family and will never be forgotten. We want to thank Monica Griffith and Care Team Hospice along with Crystal Cummings-Anibu (Village Caregiving) from the bottom of our hearts for their professionalism and extra care during his transition.

A homegoing service will be held 2 pm Saturday, July 11, 2026 at Christian Love Fellowship Ministries International. Please send flowers directly to the church. Roy will be inurned at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.

Please have any flowers sent directly to:

Christian Love Fellowship Ministries International
1601 Stamford Road
Ypsilanti
MI 48198