Howard Malmar Almond of Cobbs Creek, born April 11, 1951, died at his home surrounded by his family on Nov. 8, 2017.

He was the husband of Mary Richardson Almond and son of Patricia Almond and the late D. Henry Almond.

He is survived by his wife; his daughters, Emily Almond Hudson (Drew) and Page Almond (fiancé Nate Kelsey); grandchildren, Madison, Wesley, and Will Hudson; stepchildren, Joan Hodges (Art), Joyce Wilkins (Gordon), Bubbie Crown (Michelle), and Jody Crown; step-grandchildren, Cole Hodges, Lily, Nat, and Anna Crown and Wade Wilkins; his mother, Patricia Almond; sister, Tracey Dale (Billy); brother, William Almond (Nancy), and Anne Almond, mother of his children.

A graduate of Cave Spring High School, Roanoke, and the University College at University of Richmond, he worked with AT&T and retired from the Bank of America. He also drove for Meals on Wheels and was a faithful helper to his AA buddies.

A firm handshake and a dry wit were his trademarks. In years past, activities with his growing daughters were one of his pleasures, and until the end, his face would light up at the sight of his grandchildren. His enthusiasm for fishing and hunting were boundless. Frugal with words, Howard was generous with his time and energy when helping others. As he endured a 30-year struggle with MS, he fought valiantly and complained rarely. He was much-loved and will always be missed.

A memorial gathering will take place at the home on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017, at 1 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to his church, Westville Christian Church, P.O. Box 496, Mathews, Va. 23109 or to the National MS Society, P.O. Box 4527, New York, New York 10163.

Faulkner Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, Foster-Faulkner Chapel, Mathews, is assisting the family with the arrangements.