Thelbert "Speedy" Gonzalis Howard , was born to the late Albert Mable and Debbie Marie Howard on May 27, 1962, in Kinston, North Carolina.  Speedy, as he was affectionately called by his family and friends, transitioned from his earthly life on July 29, 2023, at Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, VA.  He was also preceded in death by his son, Brandon Lowery; and a bonus mother, -his grandmother, Mother Sudie Lewis Miles.

Speedy attended North Lenoir High School in LaGrange, NC and graduated in June, 1980.  He enlisted in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged. He was employed with the city of Hampton, the Newport News Shipbuilding, and as a flooring technician.   In 2013, he attended Penn Foster Career School, where he studied electronics and was granted his diploma in July, 2014.  He attended the Virginia School of Hair Design where he received training to become a barber.  In 2022, he attended Strayer University where he was recognized for academic achievement and received awards for the President's List and Honor Roll, while pursuing a degree in business.

Speedy was known to many to be a friendly, loving and kindhearted man.  He had the gift of making you feel comfortable when you spent time with him.  He was easy going and loved to make the people around him laugh.  He also loved spending time with his children, grandchildren and family.  He enjoyed fishing, cooking, gardening, gaming, and other hobbies.  He also loved music and drawing.  His favorite sports teams were the Dallas Cowboys, New York Mets, University of North Carolina Tar Heels, and the University of Alabama Crimson Tide.

He leaves to cherish his memory; his daughter, Kejuana Howard of Atlanta, GA;  his sons, ChaQuan Braxton and Tyrek Braxton of Hampton, VA; bonus children, Takeisha Braxton and Kwame Braxton (Dakarie) all of Hampton, VA; his grandchildren, Zamani Lowery, Ja'Kiya Braxton and Camille Braxton.  Bonus grandchildren, Tyona Braxton, Treshaun Braxton, Tyquan Callis, Jada Callis, Jaylin Callis, Angel Callis, Kalani Braxton, Kashius Braxton, Kaliyah Braxton, and Kamryn Braxton; his brothers, Christopher Kittrell (Shannon) of Harlem, NY; Marcus Kittrell (Gina), of Bronx, NY; Cressal Richard (Terri) of Winston-Salem, NC; his sisters, Albernette Keitt of Winston-Salem, NC and Tonya Wooten of  LaGrange, NC.  A host of uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins, other family members, and friends; former wife, Cynthia Worrell, and friend Debra Rowland.

Viewing will be held Friday, August 11, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel , 1601-27th Street, Newport News, VA.  A funeral service will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 12, 2023 at the funeral chapel.