Josiephine Howard, 85 of Van Buren passed away Thursday, February 18, 2021 in a local hospital. She was retired from working in the housekeeping department at Holiday Inn in Fort Smith. She was preceded in death by her daughters Brenda J. Howard and Vickie Elaine Valdez and a son Joe Wayne Howard.

She is survived by her daughter Tammie Bowling and her husband Jimmy of Van Buren; a son Jamie Howard of Fort Smith; a sister Janis Milosav and husband Mike of Van Buren; a brother Freddy Stephenson and wife Brenda of Kibler; six grandchildren Tina Thompson, Tamara Vickers, Nickie Hunter, James Jones, Michael Jones and Payton Howard; numerous great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 2PM, Monday February 22, 2021 at Ocker Memorial Chapel in Van Buren with burial to follow at Gill Cemetery in Van Buren under the direction of Ocker Funeral Home in Van Buren.

Pallbearers will be Austin Lehera, Anthony Lehera, Dolton Jones, Justin Jones, Trey Jones, Christian Smith.

Family will visit with relatives and friends Sunday, February 21, 2021 from 2-4PM at Ocker Funeral Home, 700 Jefferson Street.

Due to the COVID-19 cases, please wear your mask, your cooperation would be greatly appreciated.