Remembering C
Following an extended illness, longtime WHOA Lifetime Member and current WHOA Director Charles
“Charlie” Howard passed away November 5th at Vanderbilt Hospital, he was 68. Born in Lackey, Kentucky,
he was preceded in death by his parents, Burton and Gerogia Turner Howard. He is survived by his brothers,
Jerome, Ralph, and Earl; his sister, Suette Howard King; several neices and nephews; numerous friends; and his
beloved Tennessee Walking Horse, Mercedes.
A school teacher by profession, Charlie taught at Hindman High School in Hindman, Kentucky, Lebanon
High School in Lebanon, Tennessee, and Blackman High School in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. During his tenure
as a teacher, he went above and beyond leading horse judging teams, maintaining school greenhouses, and men-
toring FFA students. Charlie was one of those teachers that truly made an impact on students’ lives.
A longtime Tennessee Walking Horse enthusiast and accomplished amateur owner trainer, Charlie loved
the show ring. He made his first trips to Tennessee in 1970 and attended all 41 years of the International Grand
Championships. He was also a regular at the Celebration. He was a tough competitor that took his greatest joy
from developing a horse to its full potential. Charlie loved his horses and became attached to each and every one
of them.
Following his retirement, he extended his support of the Walking Horse industry by serving on the Walking
Horse Owners’ Association board of directors and as Secretary for the association. At the International he filled
the role of official greeter, serving coffee and doughnuts to the exhibitors each morning. Additionally, he was
instrumental in the success of the show’s silent auction.
A great teacher, a great horseman, a great friend, Charlie Howard will be deeply missed by all who knew him,
whether human or equine. Rest easy and ride on....
6 • Walking On