Walter Clinton Howard

Walter Clinton Howard, affectionately known to family and many close friends as “Fat,” of Cleveland, Tennessee, died on May 11, 2025, at the age of 90.

He was born in Cleveland on February 12, 1935, to the late W. A. Howard and Julia Alice Martin Howard. He was of the Pentecostal Faith and was a member of the Ooltewah Church of God. He lived and worked in the states of Ohio and Florida for much of his adult life, employed by the Glidden Paint Company. After retirement, he returned to Tennessee where he and his wife Geneva operated Tootsie’s Dog Grooming in Chattanooga for twenty-five years. After Geneva’s passing, Walter was married to Wanda Fay Martin Howard until her death in 2019. Always known as a hard worker, an avid golfer, and a good friend, Walter will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his mother and father, and his wives, he was preceded in death by five sisters, Ethel Irene Howard Clayton, Anna Gould Howard Copeland, Mabel Howard Horvath, Sylvia Ruth Howard Cannon, and Marlene Jo Howard Stansberry, and seven brothers, Wilbur Howard, Arthur Eugene Howard, Granville Howard, Martin Luther Howard, Traynor Jackson Howard, Herman Olen Howard, and Donald Irtsel Howard.

He is survived by stepchildren Davonna Parker, Kevin Martin, and Dorieta Martin, and a large number of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

The family would like to express appreciation to the dedicated caregivers at Hearth Hospice, and Bradley Health Care and Rehabilitation Center for the love and assistance they provided during Walter’s final months.

Honoring Walter’s wishes, there will be no public service. In lieu of flowers, you may make a contribution to the Ooltewah Church of God, or to your favorite animal welfare organization.

Arrangements are by Poole Funeral Home and Cremation Services.