Rita Kay “Katie” Clark Howard

Rita Kay Clark Howard, affectionately known as “Katie” to her family and friends, passed away on the morning of Friday, January 31, 2025. She left behind a legacy of compassion, service, and dedication.

Katie was the daughter of the late Samuel Harrison and Alice Lucille Daffer Clark. She was born on May 11, 1944, in Carmi, Illinois, with a heart full of kindness and a drive to help others, qualities that defined her throughout her life.

In 1967, Katie was commissioned in the United States Army as a newly registered nurse. Just weeks later, she found herself on the front lines in Vietnam, where she served with distinction in a field hospital, providing care and comfort to soldiers in need. Katie continued her career in nursing, specializing in ER and ICU care, always dedicated to improving the lives of those around her. Her service in the Army continued as she returned for a second tour from 1979 to 1982, stationed in Nuremberg, Germany.

Outside of her professional accomplishments, Katie was a passionate animal advocate. Growing up in a family involved in wildlife rehabilitation, she developed a lifelong love for animals, rescuing baby raccoons, foxes, hawks, and even a skunk. She also rode, trained, and cared for horses throughout her life. But her greatest passion was for cats. Katie spent countless hours working to re-home feral cats and kittens, ensuring they found loving, safe homes.

Above all, Katie loved her family deeply. Her warmth and unwavering support touched the lives of all who knew her. In addition to her parents, Katie was preceded in death by her brother, Samuel Harrison Jay Clark.

Her memory will forever be treasured by her son, Jay Scott Howard; sisters, Alice Faye Anken Brand (Bill), Jacqueline Clark Trotter (Michael); and nephew, Jeremy Clark Trotter (Amanda); as well as other beloved extended family members and friends.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Andersonville National Cemetery where Rita Kay “Katie” Clark Howard will be laid to rest.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.