William K. Howard (Bill K) age 87of Wallins, KY, went to his heavenly home on December 17, 2012. He was born in Wallins Creek, KY on January 18, 1925 and lived there until he moved to Baxter five years ago. He was the son of John L. and Fannie Howard. He was a long-time and faithful member of the Wallins Christian Church. He joined the U.S. Marines at the age of 17 and served during WWII. He fought in the Pacific Campaign on the islands of Saipan and Titian. He was a graduate of the University of Kentucky and a lifetime member of the KY Alumni Association. He was also an avid fan and supporter of the Kentucky Wildcats football and basketball teams. He was employed by the Harlan County Schools for 38 years. Throughout his career, he enjoyed working with the students in Blackstar, Wallins (assistant principal), Evarts and Benham (principal). During his tenure, he was a teacher, assistant principal, principal, Director of Transportation, and Administrator for the County Junior High Sports Teams.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Edna Helton Howard; brothers, Estill Howard, Larkin Howard, Steve Howard; sisters, Ruth Rhinehart, Crystal Bryan, and Mary Lee Greer.

He is survived by two sons, Bruce Howard and wife Pat of Baxter and Bob Howard and wife Susan of Fernandina Beach, FL; three grandchildren, Adam Howard of Baxter, KY, Jessica Mackesy of St. Petersburg, FL and Justin Howard of Tucson, AZ and one great grandchild, Logan Mackesy. Several other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends also survive.

Funeral services will be conducted on Thursday, December 20, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. with the Rev. Obie Clark officiating. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until the funeral hour in the chapel of Mount Pleasant Funeral Home.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, December 21, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at Resthaven Cemetery in Keith, KY with military rites conducted by the Harlan County Honor Guard who will also serve as pallbearers.

Online condolences maybe left for the family atwww.harlanobits.net.

Mount Pleasant Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.