George Walter "GW" Howard

George Walter "GW" Howard was born on August 16, 1952, in the small town of Marfa, Texas to FD and Helen Howard, and at the age of 74 he left this world to be with Jesus on September 23, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering faith. GW would have told you about the most important date in his life which was September 21, 2017, the day he was Born Again.

GW had two great passions in his life – working in law enforcement and telling people about Jesus. The first passion started as a child and never stopped while the second began in 2017 and grew to be his true calling.

Throughout his life, he served as a skilled and passionate police officer, amassing numerous certifications and accolades in recognition of his diligent service, training, and contribution to the community. His law enforcement career started in Lampasas, Texas in 1978 with his final retirement from Little Elm, Texas in 2012. Most of those 34 years of service were at Humble Police Department where he formed many lifelong friendships. During his career he was a Patrol Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Child Abuse Detective, Captain, Assistant Chief, SWAT Officer, Accident Reconstructionist, Field Training Officer, Motor Officer, Honor Guard, and so much more. He was awarded Officer of the Year in 1981 by the Houston 100 Club and was a proud graduate of the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas (LEMIT) in 2001.

GW was not just a man, he was a beacon of service in his communities. His exemplary career in law enforcement spoke volumes of his commitment, dedication, and passion. More than his many professional achievements, GW will be remembered for his radiant personality and love for life. He had a knack for storytelling and would often entertain those around him with anecdotes from his eventful police career. He lived to make people laugh and was always ready to lend a helping hand, making friends effortlessly wherever he went.

GW's love and commitment extended to his church family at Providence Baptist Church, who provided him and Mary with immense support throughout the last many years of his life and the various health battles he endured.

After GW accepted Jesus, he began to realize just how much God had used him as an officer to protect others, but also how many times God had protected him over the years. As GW’s health declined, his bond with Jesus grew and he leaned heavily on that relationship. This fueled his passion to tell anyone and everyone about the love of Jesus.

GW is survived by his wife of 40 years Mary Howard; his loving children: Mindi Carson and husband Jason, Cody Howard, Brandy Huckaby and husband Joe; and grandchildren: Zane Carson, Kaden Carson, Riley Huckaby, and Sammy Huckaby. His family was always a source of immense joy and pride for him. His love for his family was surpassed only by his love for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ... and the joy he took in sharing God's love with those around him.

In honor of GW's life, we encourage you to remember and celebrate him as a dedicated servant of both God and his community, a loving family man, a passionate police officer, and a friend to all. His life was a testament to his belief in service, his love for others, and his unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial service to celebrate GW's life and legacy will be held at his church home: Providence Baptist Church, on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 10:30AM. Address: 4105 McCann Rd, Longview, Tx 75605

For local lodging while coming to attend his Memorial Service, we recommend contacting: Holiday Inn Longview - North by IHG; 903-663-6464; 300 Tuttle Circle, Longview, Tx 75605

In lieu of flowers or food, please consider donating to the following causes that were close to his heart:

- House of Hope Hospitality Rooms & Women's Shelter; Longview, Texas 75604; 903-295-0904; www.ahopeforwomen.org

- Hiway 80 Rescue Mission; Longview, Texas 75604; 903-759-8101; www.hiway80rm.org

- Hope Haven of East Texas; Tyler, Texas 75702; 430-235-2032; www.hopehavenetx.org

- Heartisans Marketplace; Longview, Texas 75604; 903-431-1188; www.heartisans.org