Gerald Wade “Gary” Howard, 72, of Tipp City, Ohio passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026, after lengthy illness and declining health. Gary was born in Dayton, Ohio on May 29, 1954, to Nancy “Eloise” Bartee Howard and the late James “Herman” Howard. He was a 1972 graduate of Tippecanoe High School and a 2001 graduate of Capital University in Columbus, Ohio.

Gary is survived by his wife of nearly 52 years Deborah Hutson Howard, children Jennifer Howard and Justin Howard, grandchildren Audrey Stacy and Lucas Howard, mother Eloise Howard, brothers David Howard and James “Greg” Howard, along with numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, extended family members and cherished friends.

Gary spent the early decades of his career working in sales for the Hostess Cake and Purnell Sausage companies. Ever the believer in the importance of education, he returned to college in his forties, earning degrees in business and accounting before finishing his career working for the United States Social Security Administration.

Those who knew Gary know how much he loved sports. At any given time, he could be found playing softball or a round of golf, volunteering as a team videographer for the Tippecanoe football and basketball teams, cheering on the sidelines for his children and grandchildren at their games and activities, or rooting for the Reds, Bengals, and his beloved Buckeyes.

Over the years, Gary volunteered his time with both civic and faith-based organizations. He was a founding member of the Tipp City Optimist Club and was very active in Royal Rangers, a program that aims to build faith and character in young men through outdoorsmanship.

Gary also loved to spend time traveling (especially to tropical destinations), seeing his favorite bands and musicians in concert, and going for a convertible drive on a beautiful day.

Gary’s life will be honored in a private funeral service for family and close friends. Arrangements are entrusted to Zerkle Funeral Home in Tipp City. He will be laid to rest nearby at Forest Hills Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be sent to the family through this online guestbook.

A notation of gratitude: the Howard family extends sincere thanks to Hospice of Miami County for their care and support of Gary, and all of us, through the last six months of his life.