James A. Howard

On Thursday, September 4, 2025 Heaven gained a beautiful soul free from pain. James Howard age 75 went to be with his Lord and Savior at Hot Springs County Memorial Hospital in Malvern, AR. After fighting a courage battle of cancer.

James was preceded in death by his parents: Hilluard “Red” Howard and Lillie Gertrude Howard. An infant daughter, Sharon Michelle Howard and brothers Charles, Tommy, Clarence, Theo, Jerry, John, & Terry “Taco” Howard.

James is survived by his loving wife of 53 years Kay Mahan Howard, one daughter Crystal (Jimmy) Owens of Bearden, AR.one son Trent (Samantha) Howard of Holly Springs, AR, 2 granddaughters that were the apple of his eye, Abbie (Rylee) Rauls of Bearden, AR and Regan Owens of Bearden, AR. 1 grandson that was his little buddy Elijah James Howard of Holly Springs, AR and 1 great granddaughter his little princess Haylee Rauls of Bearden, AR He is also survived by a bonus son Lynn (Bonnie) Sorrells of Holly Springs and a bonus granddaughter Elizabeth Sorrells of Holly Springs. 3 sisters Barbara Bledsoe of El Dorado, AR, Lori (Rickey)Scroggins of Cleveland, AR and Ranea (James) Deer of Rayville, LA. 2 brother-in-laws that were more like brothers, Jimmy (Marsha) Mahan and Hank (Peggy) Mahan of Holly Springs.

James was a faithful member of Holly Springs Baptist Church were where he served as deacon and Sunday School Superintendent. James was Christian, a servant of God, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. He was always ready and willing to help anyone he could.

We have so many to thank for going through this battle with us. Those that are closer than friends and more like family, Richard & Claudine Baker, Danny & Reggie Ross, Ronnie & Mary Hogg, our church family, Gentiva Hospice and so many more. It takes a village and we are so thankful for our wonderful village.

Visitation will be Sunday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Benton Funeral Home in Fordyce. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Monday at Benton Funeral Home with Rev. Wayne Daniell and Rev. Tony Williams officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery near Sparkman. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net.