Thomas "AJ" Ellwood Howard

With profound sadness and loving remembrance, we announce the passing of Thomas Ellwood Howard, affectionately known as "AJ," who departed this life on June 4, 2026, at 12:05 p.m. at Majestic Care of McCordsville in McCordsville, Indiana, following a courageous battle with Stage 4 Prostate Cancer. He was 65 years old.

AJ was born on May 22, 1961, in South Carolina, to Betty Howard and Edward Howard Sr. He was raised with strong family values, faith, and determination. Growing up, AJ was known for his warm personality, athletic ability, and dreams of becoming a basketball player during the 1980s. He earned his GED and carried a strong work ethic throughout his life, spending many years working in the warehouse industry.

A man of deep faith, AJ grew up attending church and remained devoted to God throughout his life. He was a people person who never met a stranger and had a remarkable gift for making others feel welcomed and appreciated. Family was at the center of everything he did, and he took great pride in being a loving father, partner, brother, uncle, and friend.

AJ was previously married to Sharon, and from that union came two beloved sons, Trey Howard and Michael Howard. Later in life, he found the love of his life, Aretha Harris. Their bond was one built on love, friendship, loyalty, and resilience. Together they shared many years filled with laughter, memories, and unwavering devotion. AJ often said that Aretha meant the world to him, and anyone who knew them could see the love they shared.

Together, AJ and Aretha built a home filled with joy, family gatherings, and cherished traditions. They loved hosting cookouts, dancing, listening to music, grilling, playing dominoes, and enjoying card games, especially Spades. AJ's smile could light up a room and bring comfort to anyone having a difficult day. His presence was a blessing, and his spirit brought warmth wherever he went.

Although AJ did not have grandchildren of his own, he embraced Aretha's children and grandchildren as his family. He proudly served as a father figure and grandfather, offering love, guidance, support, and encouragement that will never be forgotten.

AJ was preceded in death by his parents Betty Howard and Edward Howard Sr., his brothers David Redmond and Daniels Redmond, and his nephew Jermaine Pully ("Fat Boy").

He leaves to cherish his memory his children Thomas Howard Jr., Michael Howard, and Breon Howard; siblings Betty Johnson, Dorothy (Kevin) DeGraffinreadt, Tracy Howard, Berry Howard, Katharyn Linder, and Timothy Linder; nieces and nephews Nicole Murphy, Michelle McLean, Sonya Johnson, Daneshia Johnson, Aubridge Johnson, Gedell DeGraffinreadt, Niyah DeGraffinreadt-Evans, Taniya Williams, Tatianna Howard, Jamar Howard, Tamika Johnson, Josh Dodd, Kiyyah Jonkin, Nya Linder, Nicole Murphy, and Michelle McLean; his aunt Ruthy Brummers and extended family Vera Petterson and Jance Brown ("Marie").

AJ also leaves behind a host of cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and loved ones whose lives were touched by his kindness, generosity, and unforgettable spirit.

While our hearts mourn his absence, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved. AJ's legacy of love, faith, laughter, and devotion to family will continue to live on through all who knew him.

Visitation will be held from 1pm to 3pm on Friday, June 19th at Indiana Funeral Care North 8151 Allisonville Road Indianapolis, IN 46250. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 3pm.

Family and friends are invited to join us as we celebrate the life, love, and legacy of Thomas "AJ" Howard.