James Tommy Howard

James Tommy “Rootbeer” Howard, 76, of Murfreesboro, passed away September 2, 2025, at a Hot Springs Hospital. He was born on February 14, 1949, in Roy, Arkansas. He was the youngest child of the late Robert Emmitt and Ellen (Cogdell) Howard. Tommy was predeceased by his parents, his sister, Laverne Faulkner, and brother, Billy Wayne Howard, as well as his precious granddaughter, Taylor Scott Brannin, and great-granddaughter, Olivia.

Tommy attended school in Murfreesboro. He loved football and never hesitated to share that his football team was two years undefeated and were champs in 1964 and 1965. After high school in 1966, Tommy joined the U.S. Navy, where he spent most of his time on an aircraft carrier, the USS Coral Sea, and fought in Vietnam. After serving his country, Tommy returned to his hometown and met the love of his life, Debbie. When they met, Debbie was still in high school. It was love at first sight for both. They were married just a few months later. Tommy was employed by Murfreesboro Lumber Company which later became Weyerhaeuser, where he was a planer supervisor. When the mill closed, he then transferred to Briar Gypsum, where he worked in various roles, concluding his career as a security guard. While those were his primary jobs, he also had a heart for public service. He served as a councilman for many years and as the Mayor of Murfreesboro.

Tommy is survived by his wife of 54 years, Debbie; his daughters, Monica (Keith) Scott, and Melissa Molnaird; his grandchildren, Tanner (Morgan) Scott, Garrett Molnaird, and Grace Molnaird; and one great-grandson, Lane Brannin. He is also survived by his sister Ruth Blount of Delight, as well as many nieces and nephews, and a host of wonderful family and friends.

Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 6, at Latimer Funeral Home in Murfreesboro.

Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, September 6, at Latimer Funeral Home in Murfreesboro, with Buddy Ray and Jim O'Neal officiating, with burial to follow in Murfreesboro Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Chase Bennett, Tanner Scott, Garrett Molnaird, Heath Molnaird, Nathan Molnaird, J. Bo Jones, Jeff Jones, and Travis Hill.

Honorary Pallbearers: Jack Bennett, Keith Scott, Gary Don Turner, and The Murfreesboro Class of 1966.

Memorials may be made in Tommy’s memory to Murfreesboro Cemetery P.O. Box 185, Murfreesboro, AR. 71958 for perpetual care.