Beebe Ray Howard

Beebe Ray Howard, age 91, a dedicated lifelong farmer, departed this world on November 13, 2025, in Sparta, Kentucky, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 8, 1933, in Owen County, Kentucky, Beebe was a steadfast presence in the lives of those who knew him, as well as a beloved pillar in his community.

Beebe was one of twelve children born to the late Albert and Aura Gibson Howard. He cherished his family deeply, a testament to his character and the values he upheld throughout his life. Beebe's legacy lives on through his son Mike (Marcella) Howard, son Tim (Teresa) Howard, and daughter Donna Howard, as well as his stepdaughter Diana "Sudie" (Ronnie) Deitz. He cherished his role as "Poppy" to Chasity (Kevin) Hill, Allison (Ryan) Perkins, Amanda (Jon) Majdoch, Ashley (Jon) Kelly, Michelle (Brian) Kimbrell, and Sara Jane Link, who carry forward the love and lessons he imparted. Beebe was also blessed with 15 great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy, including Tori, Bella, Wyatt, Gavin, Landen, Caden, Jordan, Morgan, Micah, Aubrey, Bella, Jayden, Jase, Tyler, and Linkon. His heart swelled with pride at the sight of his numerous step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, James Howard, Betty Simpson, Delbert Howard, Lucille Howard, and Dorothy Smith

A man of steady faith Beebe was a longtime member of Squiresville Baptist Church and spent the last 30 years at Sanders Baptist Church, where he found comfort, friendship, and a place that felt like home. His quiet commitment to his church family reflected exactly who he was — dependable, caring, and always willing to help however he could.

Beebe loved the simple things in life: fishing, farming, tending the land, and playing cards with family and friends. Those weren’t just hobbies for him — they were where he found peace. He was happiest with dirt on his hands, a pole in the water, or family gathered around a table. He lived his life with steady dedication, hard work, and a gentle humor that made everyone feel welcome.

His journey was marked by deep love and loyalty. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Alice Beckham Howard, and, most recently, by his second wife, Lula “Shug” Howard - two women he loved deeply in different seasons of his life. Together, he and Alice raised three children; those years were filled with farming, family, and planting roots.  His next blessing came in Shug. Together, they traveled, fished, and lived fully as a team, multiplying their family and love!

The memory of Beebe will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved him. His life teaches us the value of hard work, devotion to family, and the importance of community. Family and friends are invited to join together in celebration of his life during visitation on November 16, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on November 17, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, at the Main Street location of New Funeral Homes in Owenton, Kentucky. A funeral service honoring his memory will follow on November 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM, also at New Funeral Homes. Burial will be in the Owenton Cemetery, and memorial contributions are suggested to either Sanders Baptist Church or Squiresville Baptist Church.