Phillip Durrell Howard Sr.

Phillip Durrell Howard Sr., lovingly known to many as Phil or Hawk, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, in Winter Haven, Florida. Born on August 17, 1943, in Eufaula, Alabama, Mr. Howard’s life was a testament to dedication, integrity, and an abiding commitment to uplifting others through education and service.

A proud graduate of Florida A&M University’s Elementary Education Department, Phillip Howard carved a remarkable path as an educator, profoundly influencing the lives of countless students. His teaching tenure spanned several esteemed institutions including Brigham Academy, Garner Elementary School, Alta Vista Elementary, among others, culminating in a venerable career with the Polk County School Board from which he retired after 20 distinguished years. His unwavering ethical standards and genuine care rendered him especially effective with male Black students, nurturing their development in reading and mathematics and steadfastly guiding them toward their fullest potential. Garner Elementary honoured his excellence with a Teacher of the Year award, a testament to his exceptional skills and tireless mentorship.

Beyond the classroom, Phillip embraced life with zest and fervor. He was a devoted member of the NAACP and served as Chaplain for the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. For three decades, he lent his leadership and vision as Chairman of the Board of Directors for Horizon Housing Development in Auburndale, Florida, reflecting his deep commitment to community empowerment and social justice. His passions extended to swimming, dancing, traveling, and most cherished of all, mentoring young men and leading Boy Scouts troops, endeavors through which he imparted wisdom, compassion, and fortitude.

Phillip Howard was not only a consummate professional but the embodiment of patience, kindness, and industrious spirit. He was a steadfast husband to Josephine M. Howard, to whom he was married for 58 years—a partnership grounded in love, respect, and shared purpose. He was a proud father to two beloved children, Jonisa H. Williams and Philip D. Howard Jr. His roots were nurtured by his parents, Dolphus Howard II and Mary Lee Howard, and enriched by the company of four siblings: Menneck Howard, Dolphus Howard III, Kyle Tyler, and James Howard, alongside a wide circle of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and devoted friends who all bore witness to his generous heart.

Those who knew Phillip will remember his zest for life, his boundless capacity to help others, and his joyful service to the Lord. He lived as a hardworking provider and loving patriarch, leaving behind a legacy of dignity, education, and faithfulness.

Services to honor Phillip Durrell Howard Sr. will be held at the First Missionary Baptist Church, 200 Ave R NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881. Visitation will commence on March 20, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., continuing the next day from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. A Celebration of Life will follow on March 21, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m. The burial service will conclude his earthly journey at New Oakland Cemetery, 1250 Oakland Cemetery Road, Haines City, FL 33844, at 1:30 p.m.

Phillip Durrell Howard Sr. leaves behind a legacy resolute in its devotion to education, community, and family—an exemplary life that will inspire generations to come. His memory shall endure in the hearts and minds of all who were touched by his gentle guidance and steadfast love.