Jeffersonville, Indiana - Dr. James E. Howard D.V.M., 85, passed away on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Baptist Health Floyd. He was born on July 9, 1940, in Waverly, Kentucky, to the late Victor and Catherine Howard.

A dedicated professional and respected community leader, Dr. Howard was the founding veterinarian of Eastside Animal Hospital in 1971 and later opened Bridgeview Animal Clinic in 1995. He served his community as a member and former president of the Clark County Board of Health, and his expertise led to an appointment to the board of Homeland Security for discussions regarding animal diseases. Grounded in his faith, he was a lifelong and active parishioner of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, and he generously volunteered his time at the Center for Lay Ministries.

Outside of his professional and civic duties, James was an avid gardener who loved spending time in the outdoors. He found great joy in fishing at John Hay Lake, visiting his camp at Rough River Lake and exploring the Northwest. The ultimate example of a family man, he loved taking his children and grandchildren out on the water, teaching them to fish and water ski while ensuring everyone was included in the fun. He was always willing to teach, guide, and help anyone in his family, and his grandchildren truly meant the world to him.

He is survived by his daughters, Mary "Beth" Elizabeth Cox (Tim) and Susan Howard; his sons, Bryan Howard and Kevin Howard (Suzie); and his beloved grandchildren: Jimmy Cox (Megan), Shannon Cox, Meghan Barker, Amelia Ebling, Garret Howard, Griffin Howard (Caitlin), Gavin Howard, Noah Stone (Hannah), Justin Stone, and Katie Rasdon. He also leaves behind 11 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

He was married to Mary "Dino" Howard from 1964 until her passing in 2000, and later remarried Patricia "Pat" Jewell in 2004 until her passing in 2019. In addition to his beloved wives, he was preceded in death by his sister, Rose Howard, and his parents.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at E.M. Coots' Sons Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, with burial to follow at Walnut Ridge Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Center for Lay Ministries.