James Odell Howard Jr.

James O'Dell Howard Jr., age 75, of Kettering, OH, was born on October 5, 1949 in Dayton, OH. James passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 31, 2025.

James played college football for the University of Dayton and was a member of the Omega Phi Psi Fraternity, Inc. He married Gloria Howard in 1969 in Dayton, Ohio and served in the United States Army. Together they raised three sons, Tony, Sean, and Charles. James loved photography, collecting watches and pens. Always taking pictures of everything that caught his eye. Doing photoshoots for family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Sr. and Lottie Howard.

James is survived by his wife of 56 years, Gloria Howard; his children, Tony, Sean, Charles; his grandchildren, Danielle, Jayme, Anthony, Devin, Summer Laila, Maxton, Ashley, and Andrew; great grandchildren, Kingston, Kamari, Zayvion, Aaliyah; a host of other relatives and friends.

Memorial Service 12:30 pm Friday, September 19, 2025 at House of Wheat Funeral Home, 2107 N. Gettysburg Ave., Dayton, OH. Calling hour 11:30 am - 12:30 pm at which time family will receive friends. Interment Dayton National Cemetery.

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