Donald Howard
Wood River | Save
Donald “Sonny” Howard, 87, passed away at 11:19pm on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at Christian Northeast Hospital.
He was born on May 9, 1939, in St. Louis, the son of the late Herbert and Martha (Moore) Howard. He married Veda Pullam on August 25, 1962, in East Alton, and she survives.
Other survivors include two sons and daughters in law: Rick and Amanda Howard of Godfrey, Patrick and Wendy Howard of Brighton, ten grandchildren: Ethan, Sean, Anna, Joe (Courtney), Zakk (Sara), Justin (Megan), Nathaniel, Gabriel, Jaxon, Liam, four great grandchildren: Alexis, Lucas, Nova, Acelynn, and many other extended family and friends.
Don was employed at Olin Winchester for forty–one years where he was a group leader in the metallic division. Don was a member of Emmanuel Free Methodist Church in Alton. Don was very musically talented.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister: Joann.
In celebration of his life, memorial visitation will be from 10am until time of memorial services at 11am on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Emmanuel Free Methodist Church in Alton. Rev. Mark Scandrett will officiate. Inurnment will be at Wanda Cemetery in South Roxana.
Memorials are suggested to Emmanuel Free Methodist Church and will be accepted at the services.
Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.
Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River is in charge of cremation arrangements.
Pitchford Funeral Home
