Lester Herman Howie

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Lester Herman Howie, affectionately known as Uncle Lester, on November 21, 2024, in Waxhaw, North Carolina. Born on August 14, 1940, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Lester was a devoted family man, community servant, and lifelong member of Waxhaw United Methodist Church.

Lester graduated from Waxhaw School in 1955 and served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1963 to 1969. A dedicated farmer, he transitioned from dairy farming to a beef cattle operation with his brother Jim after the family dairy closed in 1986. Lester also contributed 15 years of service to Duke Energy and was a committed member of the Waxhaw Volunteer Fire Department from 1958 until his retirement, serving as president for several years.

His unwavering dedication to his church was evident in his 50-year tenure as church treasurer and his active participation in the Methodist Men's group. Lester's culinary skills were cherished during church events, and he was instrumental in the youth pumpkin patch project. His community involvement extended to the Union County Farm Bureau, where he served on the board of directors, and the Lion's Club, which held its annual Christmas Tree Sale on Lester and Judy's farm.

Lester was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in July 2010 but continued to care for his beloved cows as long as he was able. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Judy Howie; his brother, James Houston Howie (Amy) of Waxhaw; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Houston H. Howie and Elizabeth Reid Howie, two infant daughters, Mary Jane and Martha Elizabeth Howie, and his sister, Quinn H. Helms.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, November 24, 2024 at Waxhaw United Methodist Church, 200 McDonald Street, Waxhaw, NC 28173, with burial to follow in Waxhaw City Cemetery. A visitation and reception with the family will be held prior to the service from 1:00 pm until 2:45 pm in the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, The Howie family asks you to consider memorials to Waxhaw United Methodist Church, at PO Box 9, Waxhaw, NC 28173.

Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com

Gordon Funeral Service and Crematory, 1904 Lancaster Ave, Monroe, NC 28112 is honored to be entrusted to care for the Howie Family.