Gary Burke Howard, born September 13, 1942, left this world peacefully on September 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Gary “Burke”, as he was known by many, was preceded in death by his parents Vivian and BB Howard and two brothers, Roger Howard and Darrell Howard.

Gary leaves behind many cherished memories with his wife of 58 years Ida Mae, and nine loving children, Gary (Paula) Conner, Dana (Eddie) Keown, Lisa (Mike) Fulkerson, Laura Howard, Dale Howard, Julie (Tommy) Ford, Amy (Keith) Pickerill, Rachael (Kasey) Emmick, and Nichole (Damon) Hagan.

Gary was the proud Papaw to 26 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. They were the light of his life.

He is also survived by siblings, BB “Sweetman” (Shirley) Howard, Allen (Lenny) Howard, Ronnie “Mickey” (Penny) Howard, Jerry (Tammy) Howard, Ricky Howard, Priscilla (Frankie) Haynes, Debbie Schofield, Sue (Bob) Henderson, and sister-in-law Sandra Howard.

Gary “Burke” will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral Mass to celebrate his life will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at St William Catholic Church in Knottsville, KY, with burial immediately following at St William Cemetery.  Visitation will be at Gibson & Son Funeral Home, Lewisport Chapel, 315 Caroline St. Lewisport, KY, Wednesday, September 24, 2025 from 3 PM until 7 PM with prayers being said at 6 PM.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. William Catholic Church for Masses in Gary’s honor.