Charles Wayne Howard

Charles "Charlie" Wayne Howard was born October 15, 1975, in Harlan, KY to Harold "George" Howard and Mary "Anne" Hensley. He passed from his earthly body December 22, 2023 into the arms of his Savior at Jewish Hospital in Louisville, KY while surrounded by his family and friends. 

Charlie was an educator and law enforcement officer. He also worked in automotive repair and in various other capacities, accomplishing much in his brief life. He completed his Bachelor's degree at Eastern Kentucky University and was awarded his Master's degree in Education from Union College and was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity.

Charlie's passion was working with children and youth as a special education teacher. His devotion to his profession was recognized in 2017 when the Appalachian Academy cadets voted him "Teacher of the Year".

His love of animals and especially strays is well known to all who knew him. He was a loyal friend and was happiest surrounded by people whether one-on-one, or in a group. His vibrant personality and magnetic smile assured he never met a stranger.

Charlie enjoyed quiet time at his lake camper. His early years were spent at the stable working with horses. He never lost his equestrian spirit- you could often find him feeding the horses on Dingo Mountain. Further, he loved scuba diving, working out at the local gym,  and running.

He was a loving son to his mother Anne Hensley, who survives him. He also leaves his best friends, Gary Grant, Eric West, Charlie Neal, Jerry Cooper, Jeff Bonham, and Gene Haynes. "A man that hath friends must show himself friendly." Charlie lived by this Proverb as is evident by the bonds of friendship he forged and shared with these special young men. 

Visitation for Charlie is Thursday, December 28th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Anderson Laws Funeral Home in Harlan.

He will be honored in a celebration of life on Friday, December 29th at 2:00 at First Presbyterian Church of Harlan with Rev. Tim Mills and Rev. Kyle Burnette officiating.

Burial will follow in the Resthaven Cemetery at Keith, KY with Gary Grant, Eric West, Jerry Cooper, Gene Haynes, Charlie Neal and Jeff Bonham will have the honor of serving as Pallbearers.

Although flowers are welcome, the family request memorials be made to the Friends of the Shelter/Harlan Co. Animal Shelter, 21 Willow Drive, Harlan, KY 40831 in memory of Charles Wayne Howard, if you knew Charlie you knew his love for animals.

Please feel free to leave a condolence or memory at www.aljfh.com

Anderson-Laws & Jones Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Charles Wayne Howard.