John Robert Howie, 68, loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, of Bryantown, Maryland died Friday, March 29, 2013. He was surrounded by the love of his family and friends. Born February 16, 1945 in Washington, DC he was the son of the late Thomas Eldridge Howie and Martha Cady Howie.

John loved life and always had a smile or a joke for family, friends and even complete strangers. Sports were one of his favorite past times, as well as spending time with his wife, kids and grandkids. In his early years, John was Captain of his football and lacrosse teams at Suitland High School, served as class President his senior year and played baseball for the Arundel Legion league. John also played intramurals for Frostburg State University.

Later in life as a father and a coach, he took great pride in sharing his love of sports with hundreds of kids. John was the former Chairman of the Board of Parks and Recreation for Charles County Maryland and was an exceptional employee for The Washington Post for 22 years winning many awards.

John is survived by Nancy Jeanne Howie, wife and best friend of 44 years, son Brian (Pam) Howie, Traci (Dave) Denhardt and Tami (Walt) Howie, grandfather of Christopher Sarah, Kate, Maggie, Robby, Ryan, Richie, Catherine and John Robert. He is also survived by devoted brothers Tom (Carol) Howie and Jerry (Mary Jo) Howie, and numerous amazing nieces and nephews. John will be remembered as much for his distinctive red hair and infectious laugh, as for his unmatched love of family and friends. He will be forever missed and forever loved. A heart like his is a special gift.

Visitation will be from 5:30 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 2, 2013 at Huntt Funeral Home, 3035 Old Washington Road, Waldorf, MD. Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 3, 2013 at Huntt Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Trinity Memorial Gardens, Waldorf MD. Visitation will be from 5:30 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 2, 2013 at Huntt Funeral Home, 3035 Old Washington Road, Waldorf, MD. Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 3, 2013 at Huntt Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Trinity Memorial Gardens, Waldorf MD.

Arrangements provided by Huntt Funeral Home.