Billie Howard

Deacon Billie Howard was born on January 21, 1938, in Belzoni, Mississippi, to the late Willie Howard and Sadie Howard Gray (Stepfather Levorsey Gray). A proud graduate of McNair High School in Belzoni, Billie continued his education at Mississippi Valley College before choosing to serve his country in the United States Army, where he received an honorable discharge.

After his military service, Billy returned briefly to Mississippi before relocating to Detroit, Michigan, where he began his long and dedicated career with General Motors in 1962. Starting in the body shop, Billie worked his way up to become Plant Superintendent of the Paint Shop—a testament to his work ethic, leadership, and determination. In 1964, Billie met the love of his life, Alma Olevia Mills. They were united in holy matrimony in 1966, and together they built a life filled with faith, love, and family. From their union, two sons were born: Delton Jerome Howard and Christopher George

Howard.

Billie joined Tennessee Missionary Baptist Church under the right-hand fellowship of Rev. Harry N. Napoleon. He found his spiritual calling there and faithfully served as a deacon. He was deeply involved in church life, including the men’s choir, the laymen’s group, the district, and various other ministries. He also founded the church’s New Membership Organization to help welcome and guide new members in their faith journey. Billie loved the Lord with all his heart. He was a student and teacher of the Word, often reading, studying, and teaching the Bible. He authored pamphlets and books, taught classes, mentored other deacons, and lived a life rooted in service and devotion.

Deacon Billie Howard departed this life on August 5, 2025, at 7:39p.m. to be with his Lord and Savior. Billie was preceded in death by many loved ones: Son Delton Jerome Howard, Parents Willie and Sadie Howard, Sisters Irene Cain, Julia Jones, Odesser Porter, Nellie Nathan, Edith Gray, Barbara Gray, Brothers Willie Gray, Martin Gray, James Gray, Clayton Gray, and Tommie Gray. Billie is survived by his wife Alma O. Howard; Son Christopher Howard (Norma);

Daughter-in-law Rebecca Howard; Sisters Nancy Smith, Betty Scott (Leroy), Byrdia Gray, and Sadie Gray (Frank); and many cousins, nieces, nephews, special friends, and

family that loved him.