Long County now has a funeral home to call its own.
Howard’s Funeral Home held its grand opening March 23 in Ludowici, with more than 100 guests in attendance. Owner Ray Howard welcomed the crowd and said the opening of the business was a dream come true and a family effort.  Charles Houston provided a prayer of dedication over the new business.
According to Howard, the new funeral home, which is behind The Heritage Bank, has one prepared viewing room, with a second available if needed. Howard said the home had a lot of local history and previously  was owned by Alexander Gordon Pinkston.  
Howard said that after purchasing the residence in October 2012, remodeling began that included the addition of a structure behind the home where embalming will take place and caskets will be stored. Howard also said that plans include building a chapel at the home where services can be held.
Howard’s sister, Joanne Howard Boone, was on hand for the grand opening and gave a little more history on the home. She said the home’s piano was donated by Tommy and Jane Johnston in memory of their late son.  She also said that several items in the funeral home have sentimental meaning to her family and have been passed through the generations. One such heirloom is a milk pitcher that has been passed down through five generations of the Howard family.
Other members of the family who were present included Susan Graham, Ida Alexander, Beth Boyd, Brian Howard and Tommy Howard.  Also attending and sponsoring the grand opening was the Long County Chamber of Commerce.  
After the ribbon was cut by Howard and his daughter, Claire, refreshments were served to all present.
For more information on Howard Funeral Home, call 545-2061.