Elder Alfanzo Chandler Howard Jr.

HOWARD, Eld. Alfanzo Chandler Jr. - age 68, passed away Saturday, April 6, 2024 at Hurley Medical Center. Family hour 10:30 AM Saturday, April 13, 2024 from the New St. James Memorial C.O.G.I.C., 2229 W. Carpenter Rd., with funeral service commencing at 11:00 AM. Supt. Robert E. Smith Jr., officiating. Interment Great Lakes National Cemetery, G-4200 Belford Rd., Holly, MI. Friends and pallbearers will assemble at the church 10:30 AM Saturday. Eld. Howard will lie in state in the Chapel of Lawrence E. Moon Funeral Home, 906 W. Flint Park Blvd. and may be viewed from 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Friday. “A LIFE of LOVE and SONGS” Elder Alfanzo Chandler Howard, Jr., 68, departed from this earth and went to be with his Lord Jesus Christ, on Saturday morning April 6, 2024. He was born on September 2, 1955, in Flint, Michigan, the son of Reverend Alfanzo Howard Sr., and Mrs. Betty Louise Grier. A lifetime resident of Michigan, Elder Howard was currently a resident of Grand Blanc, Michigan. Elder Alfanzo C. Howard was a member of the New St. James Memorial Church of God in Christ for over ten years. Alfanzo received and accepted his call of salvation from Bishop Arthur George Burrell at St. George Beth El Church of God in Christ. He was ordained by Elder Walter E. Bogan, Sr., at Harris Memorial Church of God in Christ on August 14, 2004. Alfanzo graduated from Northern High School (Flint) in 1973. He achieved a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degree in Christian Education (Bethlehem Bible Institute); Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Education (Bethlehem Bible Institute); Doctor of Philosophy in Ministry and Leadership (Bethlehem Bible Institute). Bachelor and Master of Theology (Destiny Bible International); Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies and Theology (Destiny College International). But foremost, Elder Howard’s interest revolved around the work of Jesus Christ. He spent countless hours and days ministering to people in nursing homes and hospitals. He taught bible study classes at the Slidell Senior Apartments in Flint, Michigan. Alfanzo worked for General Motors as a forklift operator and tow motor driver. He was employed there for 34 years and 8 months. Alfanzo served in the U.S. Armed Forces and was honorably discharged on October 2, 1979. While serving in the military he received a National Defense Service Medal for good conduct and a designation as an M-16 sharpshooter. He served in the military in both Kentucky and Goppingen Germany for a total of 3 years. Nonetheless, Elder Howard was a very sharp dresser and known for going on trips to the fashion district in New York City for his attire. His beaming smile and fun disposition were his nature but, the essence of his character was a sincere love for God. Elder Alfanzo C. Howard undoubtedly put God number one in his life. But then God blessed him with his lifelong wife and partner, Vevincia who he affectionately called, “Baby Ko” (My Baby). Together they witnessed the love of Jesus Christ to others. They enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and shared a love for music as well. His favorite playlist consisted of the following songs: “What a Difference You’ve Made in my Life” (Mighty Clouds of Joy) and “My Girl” (The Temptations). His special love song which he shared with his wife Vevincia was.... and is “Don’t Make me Wait for Love” (Kenny G). This song is symbolic for his courtship of his “Baby Ko” for two years and two months before they married. He had a love for his extended family in the Philippines and made sure they would thrive in their country at all costs. His favorite past time was enjoying his love of football and other sports. Surely, his happy-go-lucky personality and enthusiasm for life will be missed. He leaves this world with this love quote for Vevincia, “I love you for eternity.” A Life of Love and Songs. Elder Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Reverend Alfanzo Howard Sr., (2002) of Ypsilanti, Michigan and Mrs. Betty Louise Grier (2020) of Flint, Michigan. Also, his brother Ray Jackson; his aunt, Marlene Jackson; and uncle, Owen Jackson Sr. Elder Alfanzo C. Howard leaves in God’s loving care: his loyal and endearing wife, Vevincia Howard; and five siblings, sisters, Ms. Monica Howard (Flint, Michigan) and, Ms. Alfreda Howard-Keck (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania); brothers, Mr. Kim Howard and wife, Melvina (Douglasville, Georgia); Mr. Richard Howard and wife Vicki (Ypsilanti, Michigan); and, Mr. Juan Howard and wife Erica (Ann Arbor, Michigan). Alfanzo also leaves to cherish his memory, an extended family of cousins throughout the country the Philippines and South Korea. He was blessed by his loyal and devoted friend Mary Pollard. And his many beloved family of brothers and sisters of the New St. James Memorial Church of God in Christ; Harris Memorial Church of God in Christ; and, St. George Beth El Church of God in Christ.

Elder Alfanzo Chandler Howard Jr.

September 2, 1955 - April 6, 2024