Mr. Nelson Ray Howard, Jr. was born on October 9, 1955, to the Late Nelson Ray Howard, Sr. and Minnie O. Howard. He was the only son born to this union of six girls who spoiled him.

Ray began his education at Grandview Elementary School in 1962. After leaving Grandview, he attended Liberty-Eylau High School and graduated in 1974. While he was there, he obtained and maintained many friendships that lasted a lifetime. Nelson began working for Union Pacific Railroad after graduating and remained there to retire after some 40+ years.

Those left to cherish his memories: Wife of 45 years – Phyllis "Cookie" Howard; Son: Nelson R. Howard III (Shay); Daughters: Cassandra (Keith) Caver and Melody Howard; Mother: Minnie Howard; Sisters: Delores Grace, Shirley Wesley, Thelma Howard, Retha Howard, and Stephanie Hutchison; Brother: Stephon Duncan; Aunt: Brenda Stewart; and 6 Grandchildren.