Howard Massey, 88, passed away Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at his residence. He was born April 24, 1936 to Murphy and Juanita “Neat” Gober Massey in a cabin on Trace Branch. Howard married the love of his life, Shirley Petree on December 20, 1959. In nine days they would have been married sixty-five wonderful years. Prior to their wedding, Howard was drafted into the Army and was given orders to report to Germany.
Howard and Shirley have three children, Keith Massey (Faye), Kevin Massey (Dana) and Kay Lockridge (Les). Upon returning to Alabama, Howard had many jobs and was a jack of all trades. He retired from the Franklin County Commission as a heavy equipment mechanic. After retirement he rarely missed a Monday at Franklin County sale barn. The rest of the week he could be found riding side saddle on his four-wheeler in the pasture with his border collies working the sheep. Howard and his dogs were a sight to see. As much as he loved being outdoors, nothing compared to his love for the Lord. He attended services faithfully at Five Points Church of Christ until his health would not allow. Second to his love of the Lord was his love of his family. Howard loved his wife and children, but the love for his grands and great-grands was above the rest. He was Howard to the world, but to his grandchildren, Marc Massey (Stephanie), Michelle LeMay (TJ), Kris Massey (Melissa), Torey Massey (Kimberly), Kaleigh, Drake and Keely Massey, Zach and Kyler Greeson and great-grandchildren, Tyler, Allie, Lincoln, Ava, Estelle, Celeste, Elliott Massey, Bo, Kade, Madalyn LeMay, he was PePaw.
Services will be Saturday, December 14, 1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Red Bay, AL with Bro. Lonnie Oldag and Keith Massey officiating. Visitation will be Saturday, December 14, 11-1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Red Bay, AL. Burial will be in Dempsey Cemetery, Russellville, AL. Deaton Funeral Home, Red Bay, AL will be in charge of arrangements.
Pallbearers will be Marc Massey, TJ LeMay, Torey Massey, Drake Massey, Kade LeMay and Bo LeMay. Honorary pallbearers will be Tyler Massey, Lincoln Massey and Zach and Kyler Greeson.
Many thanks to his beloved granddaughter, Michelle, who took such good care of her PePaw until the end, and to the staff of Gentiva Hospice for their excellent care.
