Floyd Malcolm “Papo” Howard, 77, of Plant City, died Jan. 22, 2014.
Mr. Howard was born April 15, 1936, in Tampa. He graduated in 1954, from Hillsborough High School, where he was a basketball star. He continued that legacy in 1955, after he joined the U.S. Air Force. He was stationed in Germany for four years and completed his duty in 1961, at MacDill Air Force Base, winning basketball championships.
Mr. Howard worked from 1962 to 1983, for the City of Tampa Fire Department, and part- and full-time for 34 years for Equifax/Choice Point.
He was always the biggest fan at his grandchildren’s sporting events. After retiring, there was nothing Mr. Howard loved more than playing golf with his nephew, Jimmy, and others. He had the virtue of patience and a heart of gold.
Survivors include his children, Floyd Jr., Pam Abella (David), Greg (Kris), Sandy Liess (Bo) and Christina; his devoted nephew and best friend, Jimmy Stokes (Bobbi Ann); nine grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and many other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years, Marian; grandson, David; parents, Roland and Loreeta; and all of his siblings, Margaree, James, Albert, David and Jerry.
A celebration of his life took place Jan. 27, at Haught Funeral Home, Plant City. A burial will take place at 9 a.m., Feb 17, with military honors, at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Deputy David Anthony Abella Scholarship Fund, c/o Sandra Liess, 2602 W. Sam Allen Road, Plant City, FL. 33565.
Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.