Bufford Howard Ii

Bufford Miller "Butch" Howard II

Bufford Miller "Butch" Howard II passed away October 7, 2018, at the Merkel Nursing Center in Merkel, Texas.
Butch was born on May 9, 1943, to Bufford Miller Howard and Katherine Sonnen Howard in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As the son of an U.S. Air Force officer, he spent most of his childhood traveling to and living in stations near and far, including Honolulu, Hawaii; Savannah, Georgia; and San Antonio, Texas; where he graduated from Edison High School. After graduation, Butch attended Southwest Texas State University in San

Marcos. His professional career began with an entry-level position at a major San Antonio Chevrolet dealership, where he rose through the ranks, and eventually owned his own dealership. His charm and big personality served him well. Later on, Butch used his expert financial skills to help other auto businesses with their day-to-day operations. Butch was an avid artist, excellent cook, and thoughtful gift-giver. He loved sports of all kinds, and was an especially loyal fan of the Dallas Cowboys.
Butch was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Ray Bannister. He is survived by his sister Pam Bannister McLeod and her husband Glenn of Abilene; nieces and nephews, David and Kathy Hicks of Springtown; Mike and Mindy Bannister of Abilene; Lance and Alison Bannister of Ellicott City, Maryland; and Dianne Kincaid of Arvada, Colorado; as well as a host of great, great-great, and great-great-great nieces and nephews.

The last few years of Butch's life were marked by serious health issues, but his sister Pam always ensured that he was cared for in a loving and dignified way. Butch's family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff of the Merkel Nursing Center and Hendrick Hospice for the loving, compassionate care provided to him during these difficult days. A memorial service honoring him is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association - 301 S. Pioneer Dr., Ste. 105, Abilene, 79605.