Ray Charles Howard

Ray Charles Howard, a longtime resident of Hanna, Oklahoma passed peacefully from this life on July 8, 2015 at his home in Hanna. Ray was born on October 5, 1935 in Hanna, OK to Henry Howard and Ruby Fogle Howard. Following his school years, Ray joined the U.S. Army, where he faithfully served his country during the Viet Nam War. Ray retired from the U.S. Army as an honored soldier on July 1, 1976 as a Master Sergeant. During his military service he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Viet Nam Service Medal with four bronze service stars, Bronze star medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Army Commendation Medal and a Viet Nam Cross of Gallantry with Palm. Ray was also a 32nd degree Mason. Ray married the love of his life, Maxie C. Layman on December 24, 1955 in Hanna, OK. They remained faithfully committed for 59 years. Ray was a faithful and loving husband, father, brother, and friend and he will be missed by the many people who lives he touched. Ray is preceded in death by his parents; his son, Kelly Charles Howard; a brother, Kenneth Ray Howard; and a sister, Irene Phillips. He is survived by his wife, Maxie Howard of the home in Hanna; a daughter, Beverly Sue Howard of Fairfax, Virginia; a sister, Loretta Langston of Henryetta; a sister, Wanda Scott of Schulter; and a brother, Billy Ray Howard of Hanna; by numerous other extended family and many good friends and fellow soldiers. Viewing for Ray will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2015 from noon until 8pm and Sunday, July 12, 2015 from noon until 8:00pm at Integrity Funeral Service. A funeral service for Ray will be held on Monday, July 13, 2015 at 10:00am at Hanna Cemetery with Rev. Gregg Joki officiating. Interment will follow immediately at Hanna Cemetery under the direction of Integrity Funeral Service. Full military honors will be provided by the United States Army.