Anthony Eugene “Gene” Howard, 83, of Owensboro passed away December 17, 2025. He was born in Daviess County, KY, on March 15, 1942, to the late Robert Vincent and Nora Hannah Hinsey Howard.
Gene retired from Green River Appliance after 22 years of dedicated service, yet his skill and generosity never truly retired—friends and family continued to call on him for repairs for many years afterward. He was a proud U.S. Navy veteran who served aboard the USS Valley Forge and remained active in several organizations, including the Veterans Association, the American Sportsman’s Club, and as Vice President of the Owensboro Astronomy Club. Gene enjoyed woodworking, cheering on UK Basketball—never hesitating to “fuss” at the team—and was well known for his homegrown tomatoes. An avid amateur astronomer, he had a deep curiosity about the world beyond and around him. Above all, Gene will be remembered as humorous, helpful, loyal, knowledgeable, and deeply devoted to his family.
Along with his parents, Gene is preceded in death by his wife, Mildred Ellen Howard, his brothers, George William Howard, Vincent Clay Howard, Allen Howard, and his sister, Marie Howard Krayzel.
Those left to cherish his memory include his son Sean Howard (Karen); grandchildren Jessie Hannah Howard, Richard Riley Howard, Traci Alexis Howard, and Christopher Allen Howard; and siblings, Alena Gilbreath and Gerald Patrick Howard.
Funeral services will be 11:00 am, Monday, December 22, 2025, at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home and Crematory, with Fr. Will Thompson officiating. Visitation will take place on Sunday, December 21, 2025, from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm, and will resume on Monday, December 22, 2025, from 9:30 am until time of service at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at Resurrection Cemetery.
Expressions of sympathy may be made in Gene’s honor to The American Legion, 736 Frederica St, Owensboro, KY 42301. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory is honored and privileged to be entrusted with the care of Anthony Eugene “Gene” Howard. Please leave condolence messages for the family of Mr. Howard and sign their virtual guestbook at www.haleymcginnis.com.