Howard Kermit Autry

Howard Kermit Autry, age 85, of Shalimar, FL, passed away Tuesday, May 14, 2019.  He was born August 13, 1933 in Sampson County, North Carolina to the late Garland D. Autry and Flora Ellon Barefoot.

Howard retired from the United States Air Force with over 21 years of service.  He then worked for the United States Postal Service.  He married the love of his life, Joyce Nadine Leonard, in 1953 in Dillion, SC. 

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a son Denny McRay Autry and a brother, Maxton Autry; and sister-in-law, Mary Ann Autry.  Survivors include his beloved wife, Joyce Leonard Autry; a son, Donald Autry; his grandson, David (Deanna) Autry; his great grandchildren, Hunter Autry, Avery Rose Autry and Owen Autry; his siblings, Donnie Autry, Ellis (Marie) Autry, Mary (Rudy) Lockamy, Glenn (Kay) Autry and Lillie (Joe) Pope; his sister-in-law, Barbara Autry and many friends.

Graveside services will be Thursday, May 16, 2019 at 11 AM at Barrancas National Cemetery with full military honors.  The family will receive friends at Emerald Coast Funeral Home, Fort Walton Beach, FL Wednesday, May 15, 2019 from 4 until 5 PM.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bob Hope Retirement Village, 30 Holly Avenue, Shalimar, FL 32579. 

The family wishes to give “A Great Big Thank You” to the Manor at Blue Water Bay, Niceville, FL and Fort Walton Beach Medical Center (2nd Floor ICU Staff) and the Staff and Friends at Bob Hope Village for all your love and support during Howards sickness. 

Expressions of love may be shared and viewed online at emeraldcoastfuneralhome.com

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