James Howard Porter

James Howard Porter February 27, 1929 - February 15, 2012 James Howard Porter of Waco went home to be with his Lord Wednesday, February 15, 2012, at Providence Hospital. Services will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 18, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Chapel with the Rev. Marvin Thompson and Dr. Randy Hughes officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Friday, February 17, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey. Howard was born February 27, 1929, in Mt. Calm, Texas to Robert and Nannie Porter. He graduated from Waco High School in 1947 and joined the U.S. Navy. After his honorable discharge he worked as a structural steel draftsman in Waco, and married Bettie Weathers, the love of his life. Howard was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and other church committees. He was a Mason and a member of Eastern Star, McLennan Chapter #639 where he served as Worthy Patron. His greatest joy was spending time with his wife, family and church. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother and two sisters. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Bettie Louise Porter; his daughters, Jamie Monroe and Nancy Toups and husband, Ron; sister, Marie; grandchildren, Kirk Monroe, Lisa Monroe Briscoe, Shelly Monroe Pelchat, Clinton Monroe, Zach Toups and Michelle Toups; and great grandchildren, Lily and Kenneth; and two nieces, Billie Anne Taylor and Mary Ray. Pallbearers are Billy Warren, Johnny Frosh, Cecil Perry, Ron Toups, Richard Hancock, Zach Toups, Kirk Monroe, Dr. Lance Oberg and Charles McClain. Honorary pallbearers are Emmanuel Men's Sunday School Class. The family wishes to thank the staff of Providence Medical Center and Providence Hospice for their loving care. Memorials may be made to Providence Hospice. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our "Memorial Guestbook" at www.WilkirsonHatchBailey.com.