June 9, 2025, 86, Goldsboro —
William Earl “Bib” Howard Sr., 86, passed away on Monday, June 9, 2025, while surrounded by his family in the comfort of his own home. Bib was born in Lenoir County on May 17, 1939, to the late Kirby Drew Howard and Kathleen Barwick Howard.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers: Vernon Howard, Pete Howard, and Dennis Howard; and his sisters: Edna Pearl Hinson, Ann “Monk” Wright, Helen Smith, and Gail Godwin.
Hardworking and loyal, Bib was a devoted provider for his family. He most recently worked as a truck driver for Hog Slat. At home, he found great joy in working in his garden, tending to the abundant produce he loved sharing with family. He cherished trips to the mountains—always eager to go, as long as there wasn’t snow on the ground. Bib’s favorite pastime was fishing, especially when enjoyed with family by his side.
Above all, Bib’s love for his family was the cornerstone of his life. He was the faithful and devoted husband of Peggy for nearly 60 years. Their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren brought him endless joy.
Bib had a fondness for a good, cold Pepsi-Cola, especially when paired with a meal from Mrs. Peggy’s kitchen—cooked with love and enjoyed in the company of family. He especially appreciated a good plate of barbecue, no matter who prepared it.
A service of love and remembrance will be held near the family home in the Howard Family Cemetery at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 12, 2025.
The family will receive friends for a time of visitation on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home.
Bib is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Peggy Gooding Howard; children, William Howard (Tammy), Wendy Kearney, and Jeff Moore; grandchildren, Drew Howard (Casey), Shane Howard (Abigaile) and their son—Bib’s first great-grandson and the apple of his eye, Emmett Howard, Gage Kearney (Leah), Dylan Kearney (Ellie) and their soon-to-arrive son, Willis Kearney due in October, and Jaden Kearney (Skyler) who was raised more like a son, and their soon-to-arrive son, Weston Kearney due in October; brother, Cecil Howard (Pam); sisters-in-law, Rachel Sawberger, Brenda Butts, and Linda Strickland; special nieces, Loretta Howard Sasser and Sue Carter Smith; nephew, Edward Howard; along with many other special nieces and nephews.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
