Obituary of Lawrence Gratton Howard Sr.

Lawrence Gratton Howard, Senior, is survived by his beloved wife, Mariann, of 57 years, his children, Lawrence, Diane and grandchildren, Erin and EmilyAnn, and sister Caroline. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Alfred Howard, Eileen Conroy Howard, and brother Richard Howard. A true New Yorker, born to immigrant parents, and raised Irish Catholic in Hell ‘s Kitchen, Larry spent his youth studying at St. Paul’s Catholic School, active with a large extended family and having adventures in Central Park. At the age of 17, Larry enlisted in the United States Army, followed by five years of service in the Army National Guard. After serving his country, he began his career as an Armed Security Officer and Fire Safety Director in Manhattan high-rise buildings. In 1969, the next chapter of his life began when he met Mariann, a research department employee at Union Dime Savings Bank. They bonded over a handful of cashews. She was his soulmate and wife of 57 years. What some would see as hurdles, Larry and Mariann saw as glue, keeping their bond strong. To them, family and loyalty where everything. Together they raised their two children, Larry and Diane, helped raise their granddaughter Erin and in later years, enjoyed their youngest granddaughter, EmilyAnn. Along the way they met Kimberly whom they considered a daughter and has been a rock in the family for many years. After 9/11, Larry decided to retire and focus on enjoying life. His interests included old-time radio programs, history, politics, Religion, and nature. He was a natural artist and could draw anything he saw. He also had a very eclectic taste in music ranging from Frank Sinatra to Kenny Rogers, to Creedence Clearwater. After 43 years of living in a Brooklyn apartment, Larry and Mariann sought a better quality of life in Staten Island. Larry found joy tending to his garden, feeding the local wildlife, taking walks and chatting with the neighbors. He had a calming, magnetic personality, that everyone was drawn to. It was impossible not to like him. He was a great listener, observed everything, and was humble about how well read he was and how much knowledge he truly had. His warm smile and gentle nature will be missed by many, especially by those who were privileged enough to call him family. Services will be held on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 8:00 am at, Martin Hughes Funeral Home, 530 Narrows Road South, Staten Island, NY 10304. Mass will be held 10:00am at St. Sylvester’s Roman Catholic Church, 856 Targee St, Staten Island, NY 10304 Burial will be at 11:00 am at St. Peter’s Cemetery, 52 Tyler Ave, Staten Island, NY 10310