Howland Alexander Sarra, Jr., born in Washington DC the 7 th day of June, 1940, passed peacefully surrounded by his family in his home on the 13 th day of December, 2021 at the age of 81. He was preceded in death by his wife Beverly Sarra; mother, Margaret Sarra; father, Howland Sarra, Sr.; stepmother, Phyllis Sarra; and brother, Flint Sarra. Howland is survived by his 5 children: Sheila (Jason) Ivey; Susan (Allen) Vickory; Glen (Dolores) Beck; Jewel White; Charlene (Junior) Figueroa; as well as 12 grandchildren: Justin (Mazey) Ivey; Jessica (Matthew) Lancaster; Seth Vickory; Abbey Vickory; Hollis Vickory; Glen Beck II; Cherish (Drew) Lowery; Keith (Natalie) Crockett; Dara (Scott) Robinson; Jennifer (Nicholas) Sanders; David (Kayla) Silver; Kristan (John) Ford. Howland was also blessed with 19 great- grandchildren.
Although Howland was born in Washington DC, he spent most of his years in Florida. His childhood was spent in Pensacola, FL. He went on to join the Air Force and later, the Army Reserves. He worked at the University of Florida and Shands for many years and retired in the early 2000’s. Howland loved camping, visiting the mountains and the beach, eating, shopping, spending time with his family, and was an avid Gator fan. Howland was a man of God and always brought joy to others. Anyone who knew him could not help but love him. He had a big heart and would give the shirt off his back.
Visitation will be held at Church at Orange Heights on December 18, 2021 at 10:30am. Funeral service will be held at Church of Orange Heights on December 18, 2021 at 11am with Pastor Aaron Morgan of Orange Heights. Burial will follow at Eliam Cemetery in Melrose, FL. Arrangements under the care of Forest Meadows Funeral Home, 725 NW 23 rd Ave, Gainesville, FL 32609: 352-378-2528.
I am so sorry. He will be missed. ????????
Lan Sarra was a wonderful man, friend, loved being Grandpa and loved his Saviour Jesus Christ. We will miss Lan sharing our Wednesday evening meals together at OHBC.
He was a great man of God, his family meant everything to him. He will be missed . OUr prayers and thought to his family.
Howie and I met in the early 1980’s when we worked together at the University of Florida in the Dept of Biochemistry. I am sure that Jesus welcomed him into Heaven with open arms and he will live forever in my heart.
I’m shocked to see this. I worked with Howie at UF, in the Biochemistry department, back in the 80’s; ran into him in Hitchcock’s in Hawthorne about a year or so ago. He was a sweet soul. May he Rest In Peace.
Just heard the sad news of Howie’s passing. Howie and I worked for Biochemistry for several years. He was truly one-of-a-kind. My condolences to his family.
Lan and I are first cousins. We went through high school together where he was the quarter back of the football team. He loved the military, family, church, friends and God. He will be missed by many. Offering our sincere condolences to the family. May God be with the family during this most difficult time.