Reflections of the Life of:

Samuel Dow Howard Sr.

April 9, 1952 – October 23, 2023

Samuel Dow Howard Sr. was born on April 9,1952 in Portland, Oregon to the union of Johnny & Bezelle Howard. Sam, better known as “Big Sam” and “West Coast”, attended Boise Elementary School, Jefferson High School and later went on to obtain his GED.

“Big Sam” was creative and was known for using his hands. In his younger years, he enjoyed amateur boxing at Knott Street. Sam was unique; he couldn’t be touched! He would often box while barefoot hopping and jumping around the ring. People would often laugh at his boxing technique, but he knew exactly what he was doing!

On April 23, 2001, he married the love of his life Elizabeth Louise Hudson Howard (his “Brown Sugar”), and to that union five children were born. Big Sam & Liz enjoyed family outings and family get togethers. Big Sam was very family oriented, and devoted wholeheartedly to his wife, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, family, extended family, and friends.

His voice and personality were larger than life! He loved to have fun and enjoyed putting on his suits and partying with his wife. Two of his favorite spots were Fred’s Place, better known as the Gas Room, and 1222.

If someone needed a hot meal and a place to lay their head, Big Sam had an open door and an open heart to receive them. He raised and welcomed many, but he didn’t play – he would “86” you from the house for at least thirty days and if you tried to plead your case, he would tell you to come back in thirty minutes.

Sam fought long and hard to battle with Parkinsons & Dementia, and he finally closed his eyes to rest and be with his heavenly Father & wife on October 23, 2023.  He will be missed by all.

Big Sam was preceded in death by his wife Elizabeth Hudson Howard; Son, Johnny Terrell; Mother, Bezelle Howard; Father, Johnny Howard Sr; Brothers, Roland, John Jr, Melvin, Frederick, and Josh Howard; Sisters, Barbara Jean Hilton, and Patricia Lynn Howard; Grandchildren, Shai’ India, Kieon, Teojenique, and Natiya.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Natasha Avritt Howard, Briceton Sr, Sam Howard Jr, Westley Howard, Deshawne Howard, and Tierra Howard all from Portland. Three bonus children whom he raised, his nieces; Unique, Monique, and Angelique Crane of Portland; Brothers, Richard Howard Sr of Portland, R. Craig Howard of Tualatin; Sisters, Willie Faye Birmingham of Kansas City, MO, Rita Howard of Seattle, WA, Bertha Lynch-Lovincey, June Howard Johnson and Lisha Howard of Portland; 33 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives & friends.

A precious one from us has gone. A voice we love is still.  A place is vacant in our hearts Which will never be fulfilled.

Funeral services will be held Thursday Nov 9th at Morning Star MBC (4927 NE 55th Ave Portland, OR 97218 United States).  A viewing will begin at 10:00AM and the service will begin at 11:00AM.