West Middlesex - Howard Douglas King, West Middlesex, entered into eternal rest Nov. 14, 2025. He was 82.

He was born August 2, 1943, in Martinsville (Horsepasture), Va., a son to LuEmma King and Howard Martin Walker. He was reared primarily by his maternal grandmother, Lottie Adams Smith, and his aunt, Iris Holland Johnson.

Howard was educated in the Martinsville school system before later attending the Sharon and Farrell Area school districts. After earning his high school diploma, he graduated from the New Castle School of Trades with a certificate in Building and Construction. He was remarkably gifted and could construct or repair almost anything.

Known for his exceptional work ethic, Howard held various positions throughout his life, including retail and short-order cook during his residence in New Jersey. He later worked at the former National Castings plant in Sharon. He later was employed by the Sharon Steel Corp, beginning what became a remarkable 50-plus-year career at the same steel mill—serving through its eras as Sharon Steel Corp., Caparo, Duferco, and ultimately NLMK. After the plant's bankruptcy and closure, he was one of the original crew members invited back when the mill reopened. Upon his retirement in 2015, Howard was celebrated as the "King of the Mill" and "The Real Man of Steel."

Howard was also a devoted Christian whose life reflected steadfast faith and humble service. Ordained as a deacon in the Baptist tradition, he later became a member of the Council of Elders at Cedar Avenue Church of God, where he was active in the men's ministry and choir. He also worked briefly at the National Association of the Church of God Campground in West Middlesex, and remained a committed member throughout his life.

In 1998, Howard joined the former Erie Street Church of God — now New Life Family Worship Center in Franklin, Pa. — when his wife assumed the pastorate. For 27 years, he served faithfully as an elder, a member of the men's ministry, and a dedicated partner in ministry alongside his wife. He was also an original member of the Berean Fellowship of Churches in Columbus, Ohio.

On Nov. 29, 1982, Howard married Rev. Dr. Lora Annette Adams-King. Their union was blessed with six daughters, Raquel Green, Selena King, Tiffany King, Noel King, Jasmine Musgrave (Franklyn Jr.), and Faith King. Howard was further blessed with 12 grandchildren, Markell Somerset, Maia Green, Ethan King-Vincent, Jadon King-Vincent (whom he was rearing), Charles Drummond, Ryleigh Drummond, Gabriel Rainey, Demetrius Lee Jr., Franklyn Musgrave III, Theodore Musgrave, Columbia Musgrave, and Journei King (whom he raised from birth as his daughter). He also cherished five godchildren, DeVaron (Mirsolav) Flint, Allyson Smith, Tauheeda Snowell, Anthony Snowell, and Damon Avery Jr.

Howard was an avid sports fan and an enthusiastic world traveler. Together with his wife, he traveled across the U.S. to support their favorite college, NBA, and NFL teams. Their journeys also took them to some of their favorite locations nationally and internationally. He also devoted significant time to supporting his wife and the students at the Farrell Area School District, consistently attending school events, games and offering help wherever needed.

Howard is survived by his beloved wife, Rev. Dr. Lora Annette Adams-King; his children and grandchildren; six sisters, Sherilyn Gilbert (Joseph), Karen Smith (Duane), Georgia Walker, Jervel Walker, Cecile Butts, and Iris Robinson; a brother, Rochelle Walker (Gracie); and an aunt, Jean Flemming.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandmother, Aunt Iris, stepmother, Bessie Draper; his stepfather, Clarence Robinson; brothers, Clovis Walker, Steve Walker, and Alfred Walker; and sisters, Alexis Avery, Beverly Robinson, and Belinda Hailey.

Howard will be remembered as a man of integrity, unwavering faith, deep compassion, and abiding love for his family, church, and community. His legacy of devotion, hard work, and service will live on in every life he touched.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to the New Life Family Worship Center, 100 East Atlantic Avenue, Franklin, PA 16323.