Monday, June 23, 2025 | 1:00 PM St. John’s Cemetery 301 North G. Street Pensacola, Florida 32501
The family of Deacon Howard O. King, Sr., expresses our profound and sincere appreciation for the many expressions of love and support shown to us during this most difficult time. Thank you to the Centerwell Home Health for their service for 4 1/2 years, Charlie Darden (CNA). May God bless each and every one of you for your kindness and love.
Howard O. King, Sr., a devoted servant, veteran, civic leader, and family man departed this life at the age of 99 just shy of becoming a centenarian. Born to Willie S. King and Lula H. King, Howard King began his journey in Pensacola, Florida where he was baptized in 1938 and later ordained as a deacon in 1952 at Mt. Olive Baptist Church under the pastoral leadership of Rev. James A. Clausell. He and Lillie Marie Pollard joined in holy matrimony on January 15, 1945. His life was defined by faith, family, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to service.
Despite the early loss of his father at age ten and leaving school at thirteen, he refused to let hardship define him. He worked nights while attending school during the day and eventually earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Economics from Florida A&M University in 1956 a testament to his drive and determination.
At the age of sixteen, he began working at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola. In 1942, he volunteered for the U.S. Navy, where he rose to Petty Officer First Class before the age of nineteen and led as Petty Officer in charge of the “Officer’s Club” in the 143rd Construction Battalion in the South Pacific during WWII. He broke barriers in 1953 by becoming the first Black supervisor of an all-white crew at NAS Pensacola and continued his federal service by joining the Civilian Personnel Office in 1959 and several Federal agencies in Atlanta, GA, eventually being appointed to a senior level position in Washington, D.C.
His impact reached far beyond his professional roles. In Pensacola, he helped integrate public facilities as secretary of the city’s historic Biracial Committee. As a Scout Master, he mentored countless young men many of whom went on to serve as leaders in their communities and was honored with the prestigious “Scouter Key” and “Silver Beaver Award.”
In 1965, he moved to Atlanta, Georgia and became an active member of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in 1966, where he served faithfully under several pastors, including Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Sr., Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rev. Dr. Joseph L. Roberts, and Rev. Dr. Raphael G. Warnock. At Ebenezer, he took on numerous leadership roles, including Deacon, Trustee, Sunday School Teacher, Chairman of Buildings and Grounds Committee, and Co-founder of the Brotherhood Ministry.
His professional career in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., reflected his lifelong commitment justice and equity as Contract Compliance Officer, Intergroup Relations Specialist, Regional Civil Rights Officer, and ultimately Deputy Director of Civil Rights for the Federal Aviation Administration. He worked tirelessly to expand opportunities for AfricanAmericans, women, and other underrepresented groups. His efforts led to federal programs at HBCUs, improvements to Tuskegee’s historic Moton Field, and increased minority representation in airport concessions nationwide.
A patriot and principled public servant, he also served as a “Blue and Gold Officer” for the U.S. Naval Academy and was appointed to the commission investigating the 2005 Fulton County Courthouse tragedy.
His life was not perfect, but it was full. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, a mentor to many, and a man of great integrity. He lived by example, believing that striving to be a better person made all the difference. And if given the chance, he would live it all again just the same. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and fierce dedication to the progress of others. His memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 80 years, Lillie P. King; children: Howard O. King, Jr. (Rosie), Joanne King Carr, and William C. King, Esq. (Gayle); grandchildren: Ricky King (Jackie), Elliott L. Carr, II. (Alganese), Eric O. King (Shanae), W. Charles King, Joycelyn M. Carr, and Kristen N. King; great-grandchildren: Khadijah R. King, Jordyn M. Redcross, Zachary E. King, Jaden W. Redcross, and Mitchell A. King; devoted nephew: Richard C. Ingram; beloved cousin: Zoya Webster Phillips; and a host of other loving relatives and friends who cherish his memory.
"Welldone,goodandfaithfulservant."–Matthew25:23
