Richard James Howard

Richard James Howard, 72, son of the late Hermine and Stewart Howard, passed away August 2, 2017, from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease. He resided in Cumming, Georgia, before living at Peregrine Landing Assisted Living in Norcross. He is survived by his wife Linda, daughters Carolyn Canouse and Shannon Smothers, son in laws Jack Canouse and Eric Smothers of Alpharetta. He loved his four grandchildren, Casey Marie DeSandre, Rachel Nicole Canouse, Elise Victoria Canouse, Juan Ledezma, and his Grandson in law, Justin DeSandre. He is also survived by a sister, Ruthann Smithwick of Salisbury, Connecticut, along with sister in laws, Carol Mannello of Connecticut and Fran Pistilli of Florida, brother in laws Tom Mannello and Thomas Pistilli, and several nieces and nephews.

Rich (Dick) worked in Commercial Regional Construction for Family Dollar, Just For Feet, and Fred’s Stores. He also was Director of Real Estate and Construction for Aaron’s in Atlanta. He partially retired and still worked at Stars and Strikes.

Rich was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He loved collecting and studying weapons from the Civil War period in history. He was an avid reader who read until a year prior to his passing. One of his favorite things to do was playing horseshoes with his Mountain Park friends.

A memorial service will be held Friday, August 11th, 11 AM, at St Bridget’s Catholic Church, 3400 Old Alabama Rd, in Alpharetta/Johns Creek. Memorial contributions in Rich’s memory will build a house for a special family in Peru. Online donations at Makeamiracle.net or mail to 9020 Woodland Trail, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

Richard’s family would like to express our thanks to Halcyon Hospice of Athens, and for the wonderful staff at Peregrine Landing.