James Aaron Howard

James Aaron Howard was born September 18, 1936, to the Rev. Aaron B. Howard and wife Nora of New Bern, North Carolina. After attending Pembroke College, James enlisted in the U.S. Navy to see the world, which is exactly what he did aboard the USS Canberra (CAG-2) 1960 World Cruise.

After his service, he returned to marry the love of his life, Rebecca Ann Russell. They moved to the Raleigh/Garner area, where James worked for Cardinal International Trucks for 35 years. He founded Raleigh Truck Rentals as a part of that business.

One of his greatest joys was helping his community. He was an active member of the Garner Rotary Club for many years. During his time as president, he helped establish the Rotary Scholarship Trust Fund, which continues to grow and help many local students afford college. After retirement, James and Rebecca moved to Harkers Island, NC, where they were active in the community and Harkers Island Methodist Church.

Above all else he was devoted to his family.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Rebecca; sons, James R. and wife Judy, and Paul and wife Jennifer; daughter, Rebecca Bjorklund and husband, Todd; grandchildren, Sarah Bjorklund-Brewington and husband, Colin, Andrew, Daniel and Anna Bjorklund, and Aaron and Adam Howard; sisters, Emily Sue Sawyer and Jean Parson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his stepmother, Ruth Sharpe Howard; sister, Martha Rives, and twin granddaughters, Kimberley Claire and Ann Marie Howard.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Garner Rotary Club Trust Fund (PO Box 529 Garner NC 27529) or the Harkers Island Methodist Church.

There will be no service or visitation at this time.