Albert Arnold "Big Al" Howard, 96, of Hughesville, MD, died July 7, 2011 at his residence. Born December 6, 2011 in Pueblo, Colorado, he was the son of Richard Howard and Ruth Arnold Howard.

Al was a retired Chief Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force, having served in World War II, Korea and Viet Nam. He was a Master Gentleman Gardener and enjoyed wildlife, especially watching hummingbirds. Al liked to ride and had a pony. In his younger years, he was a avid photographer.

Al was predeceased by his parents and wife, Anna Howard who died in 1999.

He is survived by his daughter, Geraldine Martin and husband Sam; 2 grandchildren, Jessica Martin and Tracie Suggs; greatgrandchildren, Jason Martin, Adam Suggs, Jordan Suggs and Gavin Kearns..

The family will receive friends for "Big Al's" Life Celebration on Monday, July 11, 2011 from 2 - 4 and 6 - 8p.m. at the Brinsfield Echols Funeral Home, P.A., 30195 Three Notch Rd., Charlotte Hall, MD. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 12, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. at Brinsfield-Echols. Deacon Donald Armentrout will officiate. Interment will follow at Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, MD at 1:00p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, 415 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21201.

Arrangements provided by Brinsfield Echols Funeral Home, P.A.