Ollie J. Howard, 88 of Guage, Kentucky passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at his home with his family by his side. Born on May 2, 1937 in Lambric, Kentucky, Ollie lived a full and meaningful life rooted in faith, family, and a deep connection to the outdoors.
Ollie dedicated his professional life to hard work and service. He was a retired coal miner and later worked as an equipment operator for the state highway department. His strong work ethic and commitment to his community were hallmarks of his character.
A devoted husband, Ollie shared 71 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Phyllis Jean Carpenter Howard. Together, they built a loving family that brought him immense joy. He is survived by his son, Douglas (Diannia) Howard; daughter, Kathryn (Mike) Rankin; and special daughter-in-law, Mary Ann Clemons. Ollie was a proud grandfather to Summer (Drayton) Caudill, Hunter (Kayla) Howard, Bryan Howard and Cooper Howard. He also cherished his great-grandchildren; Jase Randall Caudill and Delaney Howard.
Ollie was preceded in death by his parents, Judge and Lanie Shepherd Howard; his son, Anthony Randall Howard; and his brother, Earl James Howard.
A man of deep faith, Ollie was a member of Middle Quicksand United Baptist Church for over 50 years. During this time, he served as a deacon, offering guidance and support to his church community.
Ollie's love for the outdoors was unmatched. He found great joy in hunting—whether it was deer, coon, squirrel, or grouse—and spent countless hours exploring the woods he loved so much. Fishing and shooting skeets were also favorite pastimes that allowed him to connect with nature and those around him. Above all else, Ollie treasured time spent with his family.
Visitation for Ollie will begin Thursday, April 9, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Breathitt Funeral Home with his funeral service scheduled to be held Friday, April 10, at 11:00 AM with Dencil Arnett and Harold Clemons officiating.
Ollie will be laid to rest in the Howard Cemetery at Guage with Hunter Howard, Bryan Howard, Mike Rankin, Harold Cole, Roy McIntosh and Larry Hensley serving as pallbearers. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Paul Smith, Earl Stevens, Doug Stevens, Bill Napier and Phillip Carpenter.
Ollie's legacy is one of devotion—to his faith, his family, and the natural world that brought him so much happiness. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.
