James E. Howard Jr

James “Jimmy” E Howard, Jr., 73 of Columbus, OH passed away peacefully at OSU East Medical Center, Columbus, OH, on January 31, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born October 9, 1952, in Springfield, OH, the son of James E. and Winlon (Jones) Howard. He was raised in Springfield and lived in Columbus for the last 12 years.

He graduated from Springfield South High 1971 and enlisted into the USAF right out of high school. He served two terms in the military before he was honorably discharged in 1978. For many years he worked in the auto parts industry and a number of years for Gordon Food Service before he retired.

Jimmy was a very high-spirited person who loved to travel. His traveling adventures started from his days in the military and lasted throughout his life. He traveled numerous places around the world and throughout the states. His favorite pastimes were skating and playing Strat O Matic football and basketball board games. He was an excellent skater like his dad. His second career as a DJ “extraordinaire” earned him the nickname of “Jimmy Jam”.

He is survived by his children, twin daughters, Yolanda Howard of Dayton, OH and Elonda Rizvi of Springfield, OH, and son, Demetrius Carter of Springfield, OH. Grandchildren, Marlon Howard, Corey Burks, Jr., Courtney Birden, Breanna Mays, Jordyn and Jazmyne Carter and 9 great grandchildren. Siblings: Sharon Lockhart of Springfield, OH, Patricia Smith of Columbus, OH, Lillian Johnson of Durham, NC, Robin Mickens of Columbus, OH, Leonard (Melinda) Newby of Florida, and Cynthia (Christopher) Moore of Cleveland, OH, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Also left to cherish his memories are his ex-wife, Karen E. Howard and special friend, Blanche Carter.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Michael Howard and brother- in-law, Raymond Mickens.

A memorial celebration will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 1:00 - 5:00 PM
at the Fireman’s Clubhouse, 703 N. Bird Rd., Springfield, OH 45503