Obituary of Mark Howard

Mark Carroll Howard Mark Carroll Howard, 26, died in a motorcycle accident in Charlotte on August 15, 2009. Born in Charlotte on January 1, 1983, he was a new year?s gift who gave back his entire life. When Mark miraculously survived a serious auto accident just after his first birthday, there was no question that God had a plan for him. His teachers at Providence Day School noted his strong work ethic, thoughtfulness, empathy and consideration for others, both in the classroom and on the soccer field. Mark looked at the world through a different lens, one that focused on fairness and kindness. Since the world isn?t always fair or kind, he tried to make it so. He was always the first to reach out to a new kid in class and throughout his life stood up for those without a champion. His decisions, whether to become the only male cheerleader, join the Marines or to return to college, were only made after considerable introspection and deliberation. Mark attended the College of Santa Fe, where he was active in student government, played soccer and formed several clubs. He also attended UNC Charlotte. At the time of his death, he was a student at Belmont Abbey College and was the manager of the Radio Shack at Stonecrest where he used his creativity and leadership skills to save jobs while increasing sales. Mark?s perennially upbeat attitude, infectious laugh and a contagious smile changed people more than he ever could have imagined. He loved and treasured his family and friends, and that love was returned many times over. When God took Mark, he must have fulfilled God?s plans for him. Mark has touched countless people, and the world truly is a better place for his having been here. Mark is survived by his mother, Gina Carroll Howard; father, Mike Howard; sister, Mary Megan Howard; grandmother, Mary Lily Jones, all of Charlotte; grandparents, Virginia and Howard Carroll of Winnetka, Ill; six aunts and uncles, and seven first cousins, all of whom loved him immeasurably. A service to celebrate Mark?s life will be at 4 p.m. Thursday, August 20, 2009 in the chapel of Hankins & Whittington Funeral Service. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening, August 19, 2009. from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.