Yates Edward "Eddie" Howard passed away on Saturday, January 17th while in the Hospice House of Shelby. He was predeceased by his parents, Henry Archibald Howard and Rebecca Jane Williams Howard.


Eddie is survived by his loving wife, Brenda Morrison Howard of Shelby, stepdaughter Kelly Short of Grover (husband Duane), and his "girls", granddaughters Novella and Georgia. He is also survived by his shared community cat, Scooby and will be missed by many, including long time friends and family.


Eddie enlisted in the Army and served his country faithfully during the Veitnam War. He was honorably discharged, and went on to build a successful career in sales. Eddie always balanced life with devotion to his family and a longtime love of East Coast Carolina Shag Dancing.


He adored his "girls", and always took extra time to make them feel special. Whether it was something big like building them a tree swing or small like keeping a full jar of "pawpaw's cookies", Eddie always had love and hidden chocolate to share. He attended every life event possible and was a constant source of support and advice for his family.


The family will receive friends at the Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home on Friday, January 30th at 1pm, immediately followed by a celebration of life ceremony at 2pm. Eddie's wish was to have Aquamation and his ashes held until his love, Brenda, passes so they can be buried together.

Memorial donations may be made in his memory to Shelby VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars): 855 W. Sumpter Street Shelby, NC 28150.

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family.