Howard - Charles Adam Ray Howard, Sr., a proud Veteran of the United States Army, departed this life peacefully July 26, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was a faithful Christian and a member of Evangel Temple Assembly of God. Charles was an E-7 Army Sergeant who served two tours in Vietnam and later the United States Army Reserve when he was called to active duty during Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He received many awards, decorations, and accommodations for his brave service to our country which he loved. Charles was also a long-haul truck driver who received an award for the safest driver in Northeast Florida. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish; spending many hours by the water where he taught his children and grandchildren to fish. Charles was preceded in death by his father and mother, Ray and Effie (Tootsie) Howard; brothers, Paris, Jimmy, and Luke Howard.

Charles is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Sylvia Howard; four children, Timothy (Pam), Rae Kathleen (Payton), Charles Ray Jr. (Renee), and Alesha; eight grandchildren, Michael, Stacy, Charles Ray III, Matthew, Rachel, Sylvia, Hailey, and Savanna; five great grandchildren, Samuel, Violet, Sylus, Willow and special great granddaughter, Emerson who he called his partner in trouble; three sisters, Barbra Saylor (Ted), Avon Hensley, and Pauline Osbourne (Don); two brothers, Danny and Mark; and a host of other family and friends are left mourn his passing.

A Celebration of Charles's Life will be held on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Nassau Funeral Home with Pastor Rick Dougherty officiating.  Interment will follow at Jacksonville National Cemetery where military honors will be rendered.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.  The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011. 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family's guest book.