Robert Lawrence "Bob" Howard, Sr., 83, of Belzoni, passed away Monday, February 6, 2023, at South Sunflower County Hospital in Indianola.

Bob was born October 20, 1939, in Vicksburg, to Douglas and Ruby Louise Wilson Howard. He married Debbie Hawkins in 1975, and they made their home in Belzoni. Bob and Debbie welcomed two sons, Robert Lawrence Howard, Jr. in 1976 and Grady Ryan Howard in 1979. He worked in his own business as a construction engineer for many years. Bob was a great man with a wonderful sense of humor. He was a very hard worker and a loving husband and father. When he wasn't working, he was with his family. Bob was always there to help anyone who needed anything, especially in taking care of their disabled son.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Clarence Kelly.

Bob is survived by his wife, Debbie Howard of Belzoni; two sons, Robert Lawrence Howard, Jr. of Belzoni and Grady Ryan Howard of Plano, Texas; three brothers, Harold (Barbara) Howard of Belzoni, Danny Kelly of Decatur, Texas, and Eddie Dean Kelly of Iowa Park, Texas; and one sister, Barbara (Don) Marlow of Decatur, Texas.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm, Friday, February 10, 2023, at First Baptist Church in Belzoni. The memorial service will follow at the church beginning at 2:00 pm with Rev. George Johnson officiating. Burton Funeral Home of Indianola has been entrusted with arrangements.