Johnnie was born on January 1, 1950, to the late Dollie Howard-Hines and Earnest Hines in Lake Providence, Louisiana. As a child, he attended school in Lake Providence, graduated from G. W. Griffin High School, and moved to Benton Harbor, Michigan in 1968 where he received his training and established a thriving business called Howard Pest Control, while simultaneously working for many years at Comstock Michigan Fruit Canners.
Throughout Berrien County, Johnnie was known as the Bug Man, and he was a successful landlord in the city of Benton Harbor, which earned him the title of “Businessman of the Year”.
At an early age, Johnnie’s mom passed down religious beliefs and the love for God, strong work ethics, helping others, and being there for the family. He was a Deacon, Mason (Fraternity), and a member of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church.
Johnnie is survived by his wife Robin Howard of 35 years, his brothers Dave (Luetricia) Collins of Baton Rouge, LA, Earnest (Sarah) Hines of Benton Harbor, MI, Morris Hines of San Jose, CA, and Eric Hines of Lake Providence, LA; sisters, Vera Haythorne of Lake Providence, LA, Audrey (Steve) Brinkley of Hollywood, FL, Brenda (Dr. Curtis) Baham of Lake Providence, LA, and Joy (Terry) Hines of San Jose, CA; his children Brad Sr., Paul (Messiana), Michael (Stacy), Dante (Marcia), Toya, Felicia, and Alecia Howard of Benton Harbor, MI and a little pup named B.J.
Johnnie was a devoted loving father and grandfather who enjoyed family cookouts, boating, and fishing events and will be remembered by his amazing 20 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, 1 Goddaughter, 1 God grandson, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
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