Obituaries

Howard Leamon Williamson

Howard Leamon Williamson 78, passed away on Sunday, December 25, 2022. How How, as he was often known, was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to all that knew him.

He was born on December 4, 1944, in Wilmington, North Carolina, the oldest of four siblings. Graduating from Hampton High School Class of 1963, he started as a surveyor for the City of Newport News, was a Master Electrician and business owner of Olympic Electric Company, and later, at age 70, retired as a Maintenance Electrician at Christopher Newport University. 

Howard enjoyed rooting for the Washington Redskins, listening to music, especially the Beach Boys, playing bass guitar, and running sound equipment for local bands Slapwater & Cooler Rats, as well as for his church, Horizon Community Church in Chesapeake, and Saturday morning breakfast at his local Waffle House. His most cherished asset is his loving family.  

Remembered for his intelligence, wit, and natural abilities, he will be missed greatly by everyone that loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William L. and Lizzie Lee Williamson; brother, Billy Williamson; brother-in-law, Ryan Gary; and son-in-law, Jeff Walker.

Howard is survived by the love of his life, his loving wife of 34 years, Shirley Williamson; sisters, Janice Gary and Jeannie Lawson; Children, Wendy Hall (Craig), Greg Williamson (Tracy), Cindy Higgins (Mike), Kim Walker, Tammi Prevette (Wayne), Nicole Brandt (Rob), Chris Privette; 16 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Interment will take place at Peninsula Memorial Park following funeral service.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

12 Comments

  1. Dj Fisher

    I’ll always miss you Howhow. All I have is amazing memories with you. God must’ve needed someone to fix something in heaven, and even though I’m sad to see you go God definitely picked the right man to do the job. I love you HowHow.

  2. Glenda Williamson

    I am deeply saddened to learn of Howard’s passing. Shirley, Janice and family you are in my prayers as you go through this difficult time.

  3. Glenda Williamson

    I am deeply saddened to learn of Howard’s passing. Shirley, Janice and family you are in my prayers as you go through this difficult time.

    • Carla Franklin

      Shirley, Janice, Jeannie, & other family members,
      My deepest sympathy in the passing of your dear family member. Although I did not know Howard well, I heard wonderful things about him. I wish he could have gotten the valve replacement done in time. I know you will miss him terribly. My prayers continue for you and your family.

  4. Robert Debra Brandt

    We will miss you Howard you were an amazing Man. You were a man of amazing talents and skills you could fix anything and knew so much. We love you so much. Don’t worry about Shirley we got her we will kept her busy and love her for you. You are so missed already.

  5. Russ Hodge

    Out of Howard’s large family I only know Shirley, Janice and Greg and I am so sorry for yours and your familie’s loss.
    Howard and I go way back to High School days and playing in the band The Stompers. We backed up Gary U S Bonds on a record and my bandmates always reminded me that my temper got us fired from the studio. I would come home weekends from the Airforce and go with Howard and Billy and operate the lights and sound for Slapwater. We would see each other at the many funerals of our friends periodically and talk on the phone too. I’m going to miss his great sense of humor especially when playing with a keyboard player that only played on the black keys forcing me and Howard to tune up a half step. He was such a likable and intelligent friend missed by all.

  6. Brian Bolen

    Shirley, Janice, Jeannie, Greg, Wendy, and family. I am deeply saddened to hear of Howard’s passing, you, and the family are in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time. Heaven sure gained one heck of an angel when Howie walked through those gates, he will be missed by many that’s for sure. Love you Howie until we meet again.

  7. Tina-Margaret Steele

    Janice, Wendy, and Greg.
    I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Wishing you peace during this difficult time. Pray for you all and families.

  8. Kathy S. Foster

    Sorry for your loss. Howard was a gentle man. Never knew a stranger. Peace to you and your family Shirley. May you find Peace in this difficult time.

  9. Sherri Newcomb

    Howard was my Uncle, I loved him dearly. He was always funny ,witty & smart. He could always make me feel better whenever I was down. I’ve missed him over the years. I will miss him even more. RIP Howard, I’ve never forgot you.

  10. Richard Coburn

    It’s been almost 3 months since your passing. I am still missing your presence, you smile, and your friendship to me. You made me feel special. I love ya buddy

  11. Stephen Myles

    Shirley and family. I just seen this and would like to send my Belated condolences. Howard was a great guy.
    I enjoyed working with him at Lucas Controls. He taught me many things. So sorry for your loss. I am heartbroken.

Leave a Reply to Glenda Williamson Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *