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Obituaries
Howard Streit Scott
Howard Streit Scott, truly the ultimate Southern Gentlemen, passed away at home on April 16, 2022 from a short and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Howard was born in Long Beach, California on May 22, 1946 and was the son of Howard A. and Edith L. Scott of Jackson, MS. He lived a major part of his life in Jackson, Mississippi before moving to Newport News, VA in 1988. He considered both places home, making friends and memories in both locations. Howard rarely met a stranger and leaves behind friends all over the country. His quick wit, calm nature, loyal friendship, spunk, and laughter will be overwhelmingly missed by all.
Howard loved baseball and continued that love by playing and umpiring softball well after his knees said for him to stop. He was famous for his outfield shenanigans at the fence by going over, but always catching the ball to get the batter out.
When his children were young, Howard took up an interest in soccer first refereeing youth league and eventually high school and college levels.
Howard was a Provine Ram, graduating from the class of 1964. He was also an alumnus of Mississippi State University and loved his Bulldogs. He loved the Blues and was proud to show you his 1,700 albums and CD’s.
His proudest moment was when he married his wife, Marcelle, who will cherish their life and love for each other. They spent his brief retirement (because he was never really going to retire and do nothing) sampling Old Fashions at each and every bar and restaurant on the East Coast. He also loved a good cold beer after a soccer or softball game or just because a beer sounded good.
Howard is survived by his wife Marcelle Scott; daughters, Allison Scott Gaskin and Leanne Vaughan (Jamie); son, Michael Scott (Missye); beloved grandchildren, Kaitlin Cauthen (Sims), Jack Gaskin, Ross Gaskin, Jacob Scott, Harper Scott, Jayden Vaughan, McNeil Martin, and Harrison Martin; and brother, David Scott (Margaret). He was known as Howie to his beloved grandchildren. Howard is also survived by his best friend since 3rd grade, Jimmy (Joan) Estes of Terry, Mississippi. He would not go a day without talking to his best friend as they would try and solve the world’s problems and always talk about football. He is also survived by Allison and Michael’s mother, Suzanne Ross.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later time. Please celebrate Howard by having an Old Fashion or a Beer and remembering him for his vitality for life.
Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.
13 Comments
My eyes were misty and my heart was heavy as I read this obituary this afternoon. I’m heartbroken and saddened by the loss of a truly great man and an even greater friend.
Howard lived a great and FULL life, and he leaves behind a legion of friends and family who loved him dearly. We can all do Howard a great honor by following his example by always striving to live life to its fullest potential. The man taught me a lot – and I will never forget him.
Howard was like a Father to me, but not until recently… We worked together at Ferguson Enterprises for years before his retirement, but honestly, we did not become good friends until after he ‘retired’ (which never really happened).
Over the years that followed, Howie and I spent as much time together as we could, enjoying a few (if not more than a few) beers together here in Newport News, especially at Tradition Brewing Company. To this day, my favorite cocktail is a well made Old Fashioned, a drink that Mr. Scott turned me onto years ago. I will never enjoy an Old Fashioned without thinking about him.
Hanging out (mostly) every other week on Thursdays with our mutual friend Tom Foster, Howard became the Father I never had but had always wanted. Always ready with a quick witted answer, a smartass remark or just a kind word, Howard was ALWAYS great company – he simply drew people to him. The man truly WAS the Perfect Gentleman, and he taught me much. I will try and do his memory justice by following his advice, as the man taught me many things when it came to being a good husband, a good father, and a good man.
Marcelle kept Howard straight (no small feat, I’m sure) and I will always love her for that, and more. They say behind every great man is a great woman, and if ever there was proof of that statement, you need look no further than Marcelle Scott. Howard loved her FIERCELY, and he NEVER let anyone forget it. He spoke of her often, and when he did, he simply glowed.
I have yet to meet Howard’s children but he spoke of them often enough to where I feel like I’ve known them for years. Family always came First to Howard, and that is one of the many lessons he taught me. I know the folks that survive him will continue to honor his memory.
Fare Thee Well, Old Friend. I’ll never forget you – and THANK YOU for making my life (all of our lives) that much better. You will be dearly missed.
In 1990 I made my initial visit to FEI and Howard was my first contact. I was representing Sharon Tube Company. Over the next 32 years Howard and I enjoyed a wonderful business relationship. But more importantly, we became very good personal friends. We enjoyed each other’s company at countless lunches, dinners, and the sharing of a good cocktail. I will miss Howard’s friendship and his love of life! Rest In Peace my friend!!
To Marcelle and Howard’s family – I hope it brings you some comfort to know how loved and admired Howard was by so many people. We all have many stories of his kindness, mischievousness, and love of life. A great memory I have is the day after my daughter was born. I ran home to grab some things for my wife, and when I returned to the hospital Howard and Marcelle were there talking with my wife and our new baby. That’s the kind of guy he was. He always asked for pictures of my kids and wanted to know how everyone was doing. He sent beers to my table at restaurants when he saw me out with my family because the ones I was drinking weren’t good enough. My favorite saying of his was “it’s only money, we make more everyday”. I will always appreciate the lessons I learned from him and the friendship we shared. I miss him already, but I sure am glad I knew him.
Howard was my hero and he was the one brought me into Ferguson’s career. His humbleness and intelligence always taught me how to live a life. Rest in peace Howard.. I will always remember you as my mentor
Marcelle and Family,
I worked with Howard for many years at Ferguson and will cherish many memories from that time. I will be thinking of you all during this difficult time. Howard will be missed greatly!
Howard was truly a remarkable man and dear friend. I first met Howard in person at a Ferguson training seminar in 1991 and he was so charming and fun. When I made my move to HQ in 1996, he was incredibly welcoming. His music collection was legendary and we listened to it after 5 in the office everyday. He was also the ringleader for us getting together after work to hear live bands in the area. I can still see him playing the air guitar to his favorite tunes. When he met Marcel, he was so smitten and we laughed when he was disappointed that we had not noticed his wedding ring the day after he got back from getting married. We loved him so much. Marcel- you are wonderful. Please lean on us if you need anything.
There has been a hole in my heart since I heard the devastating news. To say that we all lost a friend, a true, genuine friend is an understatement.
I met Howard Scott through Ferguson Enterprises. Our friendship did not end after his “retirement” and it was always so good to see him when I did. Howard taught me a lot about life, always brought a smile to my face and gave a hug that you always knew was real. He supported my children graciously with their fundraisers.
Marcelle, my heart goes out to you. Please know that your entire “Ferguson Family” loves you and we are hear for you during this difficult time and always.
Both Howard and Marcelle were a true example of what love is all about.
I will never forget what this special man taught me and I am grateful to have spent time with him for as long as I did through Ferguson.
He will be missed by many, loved by all and forgotten by none. Until we meet again, my friend….❤
Howard was one of the most laid back and truly kind person and someone that if you had him in your court you could rest assured he’d have your back.
So many memories but I will will always remember Jimmy Buffett concerts and Howard’s famous saying “I haven’t heard a word in a week” and you knew anything you told him would go nowhere. And you taught me how to eat craw dads and convinced me I’d love them and sure enough did.
When he first started dating Marcelle it was obvious she was the one. Marcelle you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Howie – I feel sure you are wearing your flip flops and enjoying some craw dads. 🙏🏻❤️
Howard, aka the king of stainless. his nickname in our Fei Pvf group. first time i met Howard he sat a skid of material on my foot. he told me i shouldn’t have put my foot under the skid. several of us took a mandatory trip to Florence s.c. for a meeting. along the way some adult beverages were purchased. the men in the group all purchased a beverage with hops and barley i went with a refreshing wine cooler. Howard forbid me from contaminating the beer with some Bartles and James so i wasn’t allowed to mix them in the cooler. when i would visit Newport news Howard i, and some times some pvf alum would meet for lunch at Ann Maries a local establishment. a few years later we moved to the Hilton tavern to watch Saturday football. then our last watering hole was traditions. Howard always made you feel so welcome there. Howard was truly a southern gentlemen. its only money was his phrase to convince me i shouldn’t be a tight wad enjoy yourself while you can. Rest easy KING you will be missed.
Marcelle and family.
Howard was an icon in the steel pipe industry. Working with him at Ferguson was a joy. Such a class act, with hundreds of friends in the industry. Miss you buddy.
I, too, am a devotee of the Old Fashioned(Maker’s). The future ones shall be in his name also. I admire the lifelong friendship he maintained. Blessings to his family.
Reading the messages brings a smile to my heart. Dad was an amazing man, an awesome friend, and the most beautiful and loving father a girl could ever have. I lived with him in Newport News when he first met my most amazing stepmom. I was a little apprehensive at first, but I soon realized that the love they shared only meant double for me and our family. Their love is truly an example to live by.
Thank you for remembering his motto, “it’s only money.” Dad knew there are more important things in this life. He always made sure I went to concerts when I could, Buffet and Clapton to name a couple. He was my early morning coffee talk and my beer delivery man when I couldn’t get my favorite brew in Mississippi. He was my best friend, the first man I ever loved. Thank you from the family for loving him, too. Have an Old Fashion on his behalf or buy one for a friend or stranger. I have.
Dad, in the two years since you have been gone, there has not been a single day that you have not been in my thoughts. As I am submitting this at 5:30 am, I long for our early morning calls just to talk. You always made time for me, but that was our time. I love you, Howie. I miss you terribly, but I know that I will see you again.