Terry Duane Howson

Terry Duane Howson, affectionately known as “Pa”, age 83, of Sanford, passed away peacefully at home with his loved ones by his side on Sunday, June 28, 2026. Terry was born March 6, 1943, and was raised by his grandparents, the late Emma (Nonni) and George Marden.

Terry married the love of his life, Judy, on December 8, 1969. They spent 56 years of unwavering loyalty and quiet devotion to each other.

Terry grew up working in his grandpa's butcher shop where he perfected his knife skills breaking down beef and venison with precision. He later owned and operated the Sanford Meat Market and continued to teach future generations. Terry was a true cattleman and spent countless hours working at the Clare Livestock Auction. He and Judy devoted their lives to the success of the Circle H Ranch and shared with their family the chance to experience their own little slice of heaven. The farm gave Terry an avenue to teach and pass down what he felt were most important in life: a good work ethic; how to handle a butcher knife; stand your ground, especially when sorting cattle; even when times get tough, you keep moving; and a good Ford truck will haul your entire family and cattle safely to their next destination. Terry strongly believed brahma cattle, appaloosa horses, and pug dogs were the superior breeds and each provided him with a lifetime of excitement and companionship.

Surviving Terry is his wife Judy along with his children, Bev (Brian) McCaffrey, Jeff (Kandy) Messersmith, Vicki (Dave) Buckey, Terri Jo (Guy) Johnson, Linda (Jeff) Fauver, Tammy (Brad) Beckett; and his 13 grandchildren, Jake (Jessica) Wiggins, Tory (Zach) Hughes, Jessica (Joe) Kraniak, Sarah (Justin) Fowler, Dr. Nichole (Ken) Ng, Kade (Danna) Messersmith, Jordan (Tanner) Smith, Tucker (Victoria) DuLude, Taylor Bowland, Katie (Austin Ruddle) Fauver, Ashley (Curtis) Kee, Austin DuLude, Garrett (Renee Lindsey) Bowland and 18 great grandchildren which brought him great joy.

Pa, your labor is done, but your legacy lives on. We will close the gate.

A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.