Derrick Howard

Derrick Ephraim Howard of New Haven, CT departed this life on April 16, 2019. Derrick was born on May 1, 1969 in New Haven, CT to his Mother Vernell Howard and his Father Willie C. Howard Jr. Derrick graduated from Hill-House High School in 1987. He then went on to Porter-Chester Institute, where he graduated in 1989, with a certificate in computer electronics. Derrick spent the majority of his life employed by various restaurant agencies like: Fitz Willies, Jeffies, Tony and Lucilles, Claire's Cornercopia , Chowder Pot, St. Regis, Hopkins, and On Broadway. Derrick then went on to create his own catering company, D-How,s Catering, in which he he added a unique and innovative touch to each dish. In additionto his love for culinary arts, Derrick was also passionate about his dedication to fitness and healthy living, hence the name “Mr. Fit-4-Life”. He was so passionate about fitness and healthier life choices he decided to become a personal trainer as well (don’t hold on to the bars on the treadmill he’s watching you). Derrick enjoyed spending time with his family, cooking,reggae music, annual trips to Myrtle Beach, SC, eating, and laughing (yes, we know his laugh was a little crazy). Derrick was known for his delicious food and his infectious smile. No matter who you were or where you came from he greeted everyone with a smile, humbleness, and respect. Derrick met Juanita Feeney, in high school, and from their relationship they gave the world three beautiful daughters: Sinaya “Naya Bean” Howard, Cierra “Lacey Pie” Howard, and Sydney “Sid-Pie” Feeney. In addition, Derrick was also a proud grandfather known as “G-Pa” to Brian “Buddy” Patterson and Tori “Kayson” Reeves. Derrick’s love for his children and grandchildren was simply immeasurable. Aside from his love for cooking and fitness, anyone who came across his path, he told them about his daughters and how much he loved them. Derrick would also be quick to tell anyone how proud of his daughters he was and left no doubt regarding the love he had for his girls. Derrick leaves to cherish his memories from his loving mother Vernell Howard of New Haven, CT and his sisters Pat Lewis, Aundretia Shaw, and Sheila ( Lil Big Sister) Howard all of New Haven, CT. He also leaves to cherish, brother in-law Errol Lewis, his nephews Gregory L. Howard Jr, Sean Shaw, Brandon Shaw, Jordan Howard, Brandon Bryant, Tavon Whaley, Lauriston Lewis and Elijah “Pop” Howard and his nieces Sarita Whaley, Kandace Whaley, Taylor Whaley, and Kemmetia Lewis Allen. A host of aunts , uncles, cousins and friends. Lastly, Derrick also leaves to cherish his memories his loving cousins Christopher Shaw and Greg Holmes as well as his lifelong friends Tyrese Barker, John Cain, and Tim Bennett. Derrick was predeceased by his maternal grandparents John and Rosa Shaw and his paternal grandparents Willie and Lizzie Mae Howard. Derrick was also predeceased by his father Willie C Howard Jr. " Think of him as living in the hearts of those he loved...... for nothing loved is ever lost and he was loved so much"

Derrick Howard

May 1, 1969 - April 16, 2019