James Phillip Howard, 72, of Tall Timbers, Maryland, passed away on August 15, 2026, after a brief battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
Born on February 10, 1954, in Washington, DC, he was the son of the late Charles Phillip Howard and Myrtle Ellis Howard. Jimmy grew up in Suitland, Maryland, spending his weekends and summers in Tall Timbers, where he fostered his unwavering passion for boats and developed many lifelong friendships. He graduated from Bishop McNamara High School before moving to Tall Timbers permanently. He wrestled in high school and enjoyed water skiing, snow skiing and boat racing.
Jimmy met his wife, Khriss, 50 years ago and they married in 1980. Together they raised two daughters, Jessica Megan Maletto (Jason) and Anna Brooke in Hughesville, MD. He is also survived by his brother, Michael Howard (Mary Ellen), of Charlotte Hall, MD, many godchildren, nieces and nephews and his adored grandchildren, Olivia and Xavier Maletto. He was fiercely protective of his family and always put them first.
Jimmy was a member of Plumbers & Pipefitters Local #5 and worked as a master plumber, retiring as Vice President of the mechanical contractor, John J. Kirlin, Inc. In that role, his favorite projects included the Union Station restoration, MCI Center (Capital One Arena) and Nationals Park. He would tell you he was “just a plumber” but could build almost anything, including his family’s home, a wooden crabbing boat, and the walls of his daughters’ dance studio.
In retirement, Jimmy and Khriss returned to Tall Timbers, and he spent his time crabbing and fishing. He found joy in catching crabs and sharing with his neighbors and friends. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, great nieces and nephews and researching family history.
Celebrate and honor Jimmy as he lived life: holding tight to your loved ones, finding joy in the little things (like ice cream and crabs) and slowing down to watch the boats pass by.
The family will receive friends for Jimmy’s Visitation on Thursday, August 27th, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 28800 Washington Street, Leonardtown, MD 20650, with a Mass of Christian Burial to take place at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Father Danny Morrison. Interment will follow at Charles Memorial Gardens, 26325 Point Lookout Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650.
Donations may be made in Jimmy’s name to Hospice of St. Mary’s, Post Office Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650.
Condolences to the family at www.brinsfieldsfuneral.com
Arrangements provided by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A
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