SGM (Ret.) Timothy James "T.J." Howden

Timothy James Howden, known as “T.J.” to his family and friends, was born on February 9, 1943, to Michael and Nydia (Hinshaw) Howden, in Yakima, Washington, where he grew up and attended school until entering into the military at age seventeen. in 1960. SGM Howden served in the United States Army for over thirty years, earning specialty titles such as, General Engineering Supervisor, First Sergeant, Instructor, Construction Engineering Supervisor, and Heavy Construction Equipment Operator. T.J. also received awards the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Army Commendation Medal-2, Bronze Star Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon-3, Army Good Conduct Medal-9, Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm, Meritorious Service Medal-2, Vietnam Service Medal-7, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Noncommissioned Office Professional Development Ribon-1, Expert Qualification Badge M-16 Rifle, and Legion of Merit, before being honorably discharged after serving the country he loved; retiring from Fort Leonard Wood on November 1, 1990. SGM Howden rose through the ranks as he served his fellow man. Following his retirement, T.J. became a referee for different sporting events throughout the area for many years, and well into his seventies. He loved people and refereeing gave him the opportunity to meet folks and have fun doing something he loved so much as officiating was definitely his passion! T.J. also served the Waynesville/St. Robert Officials Association in the offices there. He loved helping people whenever he got the chance. On December 31, 2011, in Rolla, Missouri, T.J. married Margaret Bonita “Bonnie” Prescott. T.J. was the proud father of his children, Sheryl, Shawn and Shane. The families enjoyed spending time together as often as possible. Many treasured memories were made throughout their years together. On the morning of Wednesday, June 12, 2024, with his devoted wife and daughter by his side, T.J. left the troubles and cares of this life behind after his brave fight with cancer, having attained the age of eighty-one. T.J. leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife, of over twelve years, “Bonnie” of their home in Richland, MO; one daughter, Sheryl Dawn Howden-Bailes of Dixon, MO; two sons, Shawn Brown of Dixon, MO and Shane Brown of the state of TN; 13 grandchildren, Joshua Bond, Jordan Bond, Ethan Howden, Ember Bailes, Dakota Brown, Matthew Brown, Caiden Brown, Zachary Brown, Megan Brown, Jadyn Brown, Grayson Brown, Lilliana Grace Bell, and Olivia Bell; 10 great grandchildren, Sophia, Raylen, Liam, Noah, Waylon Timothy, Ronni, Freya, Brody, Caroline, and Millie; one brother, Steve Howden (Jeanette) of Union Gap, WA; several nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. T.J. was preceded by his parents, and one sister Elizabeth Bingham. He was a loving devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend. His love extended to all those around him, many friends who became family over time. The loss is felt deeply by each one who had the privilege of knowing him. However, many memories have been tucked away in the minds of those who knew him and loved him so remember T.J. with smiles and laughter until we meet again. Services were held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 18, 2024 with Pastor Brian Smith and Deacon, Steve Marshall officiating. Favorite music selections included “Till the Storm Passes,” “Love the People God Gave You,” “If,” and “God Bless the USA.” Full Military Honors were provided by the Untied States Army. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapel of Richland. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of SMG (Ret.) “T.J.” Howden and can be left at the funeral home. Online condolences can be sent at www.memorialchapelsandcrematory.com.

SGM (Ret.) Timothy James "T.J." Howden

February 9, 1943 - June 13, 2024