Audie “Jake” Howard Jr., age 89, of Heber Springs, Arkansas, passed away Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at Southridge Nursing and Rehab in Heber Springs. He was born January 29, 1937 in Haynes, Arkansas to the late Audie Howard Sr. and Pearl Goins Howard. 

Jake made a career as a truck driver before he retired. He enjoyed playing music as a bass player. He and Mary traveled in a band for many years called, “Jackie Steward & The Honky Tonk Heroes". He enjoyed traveling and spending time with family and friends. 

He is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Eugene Howard, Eldon Howard, and Willard Howard; and one sister, Maxine Hayes.

Jake is survived by his wife, Mary Howard of Heber Springs; son, Stephen Loyd of Heber Springs; two stepsons, Scottie Jo Tooley (Beverly) of Newport, Arkansas, and Russell Tooley (Diane) of Cave Springs, Arkansas; stepdaughter, Patricia Harvey (David) of Chilithe, Missouri; brother, Billy Wayne Howard of Strawberry, Arkansas; sister, Irene Henry of North Carolina; and many extended family members and wonderful friends. He will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him.