John J. Howard, 74, died on June 29, 2016 at his home in Chatham, New York. He was born February 16, 1942 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Joseph B. and Mary (Crimmins) Howard. From his very earliest years with his parents, right through mid-life he was an avid adventurer, living, traveling and eventually working worldwide. John is survived by his soul-mate and wife of 39 years, Phyllis (Card) Howard. A brother, Joseph B. Howard, Jr. of California, his father-in-law, Robert Card of Philmont, NY, many cherished cousins and his four legged fur babies - Sugar and Smokey. He attended the University of Arizona in Tucson and earned his BA in History from Siena College in 1965 and continued his graduate education at the University of Rhode Island. His career as a history teacher and administrator primarily in overseas private schools fostered and perpetuated his intense interest in the world, geo-politics, current events and the human condition. His favorite and most memorable professional posts abroad included the American Schools in Beirut, Lebanon and Madrid, Spain and The Antilles School in St. Thomas and the St. Croix Country Day School both in the US Virgin Islands. The three times he taught stateside were at the Sea Pines Academy in Hilton Head Island, SC, the Millbrook School and one year at the Chatham Middle School where he met his bride. John was a man of strong feelings and opinions, which he was always eager to share. He knew what he liked and was adept at avoiding that which he didn't. To those whose life he touched or path he may have crossed deeply appreciated his rapid-fire and incredible wit, which more often than not bordered on the irreverent. Many enjoyed and looked forward to his endless stories and affectionately referred to him as "the Old Philosopher". An avid and voracious reader, he leaves his wife to ponder just what to do with his vast hard cover and Kindle library collections. He's disappointed for sure that he left the latest Arturo Perez-Reverte novel ½ finished and didn't live long enough for the pending Daniel Silva release or the opening of the new Bakery Café in the Bartlett House in Ghent, both scheduled in early July. The family is concerned that the revenue stream for some of John's favorite fine dining establishments in the region will take a hit with his departure. Visitation will take place at the French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home in Chatham from 10 -11:30 am on Friday, July 8, 2016, with a Memorial Service to be held immediately following at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to one of John's favorite organizations: The Austerlitz Historical Society (AHS PO Box 144 Austerlitz, NY 12017) or the WAMC radio station (WAMC/Northeast Public Radio, P.O. Box 66600 Albany, NY 12206). Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblassl.com.