Charles Howard Sr.

Son of the late Queen & Lewis Howard, Charles Anthony Howard, Sr. was born on March 16, 1959. Growing up in Newburgh, NY, Charles quickly found a passion for basketball, music, writing, and fashion. Charles attended Newburgh public schools, graduating from Newburgh Free Academy in 1977. Charles went on to join and serve in the United States Air Force.

Following his stint in the Air Force, Charles attended and graduated from SUNY Buffalo State College with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism. With his passion for education reignited, Charles went on to earn a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from SUNY New Paltz University located in New Paltz, NY. Charles also earned a Master's in Public Administration from American Public University in 2013.

While serving as an Educator, Charles answered the call to the ministry of Jesus Christ. Charles served as an associate minister at Holy Temple United Holiness Church located in Newburgh, NY, in response to this call.  Charles was ordained an Elder and later became the Assistant Pastor at Hope Chapel Church of God in Christ. As Charles continued to serve, grow and develop, he felt called to the role of Senior Pastor. This call sparked the inception of Higher Calling Ministries. The Higher Calling ministry blossomed and grew, touching the lives of many so much that a radio broadcast was birthed to reach the masses.

Charles relocated to Clinton, North Carolina, and joined Unity Christian Center, where he served as an associate minister and praise team member. In addition to service to the church, Charles spent years leading to his retirement as director of a Group Home and an instructor at Fayetteville Technical  Community College.

Charles Anthony Howard, Sr. departed this life on October 10, 2021, at Sampson Regional Medical Center. Preceded in death by one brother (Vasco) and his parents, Charles leaves behind many that will cherish his memory. Mourning is his greatest gift; his son Charles Anthony Howard Jr. along with his mother Valerie Howard both of Lawrenceville, Ga. his Sisters Marion D. Pope of Clinton, NC, Marie A. Amos (Creg) of Columbus, Georgia, Jackie Turner of Loganville, Ga, and Andrea White (John) also of Lawrenceville, Ga. Mourning equally is longtime companion Octavia Smith along with her daughters Michelle and Shantavia and grandson Avery. Others left with cherished memories include a host of aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins, and loving friends.

 Interment will be Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at 12 Noon at Sandhill VA Cemetery, Spring Lake, NC with military honors. 

Butler & Son Funeral Services

Clinton, NC 

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