Mr. Howard Orvis Ladner Sr

Mr. Howard Orvis Ladner, Sr., 78 of the Silver Run community, passed away peacefully at home with his wife where he loved to be, on Saturday morning, April 28th. Howard, or Hayward as many referred to him, was born in Hancock county on July 22, 1939, the baby of three children to Orvis and Maggie Ladner. He grew up on the family farm, situated on the banks of Wolfe River in the Crane Creek community, and was a true cowboy at heart. He loved riding horses, fishing, and being outdoors, and even had a pet alligator growing up. He attended the Sellers community school, later graduating from Savannah. He loved music as a young man, learning to play the harmonica, as was always whistling something. He attended Perk College for a bit, studying music before joining the US Army. Howard served for 4 years in the 60s as a track vehicle mechanic, and also as a medic for a time as well. Early on, he drove a milk delivery truck, and later made a career as a steel fitter. Howard married the love of his life, Judy Herrington, in January 1962, and they made their home in Silver Run. He is remembered as a devoted and loving husband for over 56 years, telling Judy that he loved her every single day. A provider for his family, Howard was never too tired to take the kids to the creek, or to tell a story, and you never quite knew when he was serious, or telling a tale. He was a kind, jovial person who never met a stranger, and who loved unconditionally. He will be sadly missed, and fondly remembered by all whose life he touched. He was preceded by his parents, and all of his siblings, Lois Head, L.V. Ladner, Jaybird Ladner, Hilda Dedeaux, Hayden Ladner, and Marvin Bond; along with one son, Jeffery Ladner. Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife, Judy; their children, Howard Jr. of Ashville, NC; Melissa (Rufus) Barnes, Michael Ladner, and Amanda (Melvin) Gipson, all of Poplarville; five grandchildren, Chelsea, Anthony, and Aaron Barnes, Abigail Gipson, and Brittany (Webbie) Freret; four great-grands, Bryton Richard-Bay, and Jayden, Sebastian, and Aubri Freret; numerous nieces, nephews, and more friends than you could know. Howard's desire was to be cremated, which his family is honoring. A memorial service will be held on Thursday evening, May 3rd at 6:00 PM, followed by a chapel service at 8:00 PM, all at Trinity Funeral Services in McHenry. Trinity is honored to serve Ms. Judy and the Ladner family. Please keep them all in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.