Bernardo Howard, 54, Artesia, N.M., passed away on Friday, April 14, in Lubbock, Texas, with both of his daughters by his side. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Terpening & Son Mortuary. Memorial services were Friday.
Bernardo was born in Sedgwick County, on May 17, 1962, to Dan and Enedena (Chavez) Howard. Bernardo attended Wyandotte High School in Kansas City, Kan. Here he made a huge impact on the community and his peers. He participated in multiple activities throughout his school, and excelled academically and as an athlete. Bernardo was active in baseball, basketball, track and field, and choir. Bernardo placed multiple school records which still stand as of today.
Out of high school, Bernardo signed pro with the Philadelphia Phillies. Bernardo went on to play for the Phillies for four years. Upon leaving the Phillies, Bernardo relocated to Artesia, N.M., where he was blessed with two young daughters.
Shortly after the birth of his second daughter, Bernardo enrolled in college for a medical degree. He served in the medical industry for 22 years before his health and sight started to decline. He was diagnosed as a diabetic and was legally blind in his late 40s. Even faced with his blindness, Bernardo enrolled himself into the Alamogordo School of the Blind and into National American University in pursuit of his second bachelor’s degree. Bernardo went on to graduate from the School of the Blind as well as graduate with a 4.0 GPA and honors from National American University.
Anyone who knew Bernardo knew he was full of life, love and laughter. He loved to sing and dance with his grandchildren. Bernardo could always be seen with a smile on his face and his heart on his sleeve.
Bernardo is survived by two daughters, Santana Howard and Sahara Howard (Skye Huerta); his fiance, Mary Matthews; two sisters, Patty Howard and Maria Howard along with her husband Eddie. Bernardo is also survived by all six of his brothers, Daniel Lee Howard and wife Theresa, David Howard, Armando Howard and wife Latonya, Michael Howard, Roberto Howard and Rick King. Bernardo also has three grandchildren, Ayden J’siah Howard, J’syn Trae Huerta and Mi’Reyah Aryanna Ochoa.
Bernardo Howard
