Storke Funeral Home Obituaries

In loving memory of Otha Allen Howard, 75, of Rappahannock Academy, who peacefully passed away at home on Saturday, January 13, 2024. Born in Raleigh, North Carolina, Allen was the son of the late Otha Titus Howard and Mary Irene Haire Howard. Throughout his remarkable life, Allen embraced the lessons of hard work and as a young boy learned the ropes of dairy farming at Hop Yard Farms which was managed by his family.

Survived by his devoted wife of 49 years, Catherine “Bunny” Howard, Allen leaves behind a legacy with their three children Otha Ray Howard (Jennifer), Andy Howard (Jessica) and Amy Howard; two sisters; a brother; and his two adored grandchildren, Allison Dare Howard (Dalton Mauck) and Brandon Ray Howard.  Allen also had a daughter in Ohio, Michelle Bailey (Jimmy) and three grandchildren, Brittany, Dylan and Faith and four great-grandchildren.

Allen’s journey led him from truck driving to become the founder and President of Howard Bros. Inc., a family venture specializing in road building and asphalt paving. His larger-than-life personality and infectious smile endeared him to many, earning him the affectionate nickname “Big Al.”

Despite facing challenges, including a life-altering motorcycle accident in 2008, Allen approached each day with a grateful heart and an unwavering spirit. Cheating death multiple times, he seemed to possess the resilience of a cat with nine lives. Allen cherished his family, particularly loving in the role of “Pop-Pop” to Allison and Brandon, his beloved grandchildren, whose presence never failed to light up his world.

Allen survived over the past 16 years because of the outstanding care provided by many nurses and doctors, with special thanks to Dr. Timothy Wratchford and Dr. Ernesto Gonzalez.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at Storke Funeral Home in King George, Virginia, on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, from 6 to 8 PM. A funeral service will take place at the same location on Thursday, January 18, 2024, at 2 PM, followed by interment at Historyland Memorial Park. Allen’s enduring love, laughter, and zest for life will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.