Howard F. Pitcher, 86, of Orlando, Florida, passed away on May 19, 2026. He was born on May 13, 1940, in Poughkeepsie, New York, to Austin H. Pitcher and Ella F. Pitcher.

Howard lived a life of faith, service, and devotion to his family. He will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to those he loved. His influence touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew him.

Howard proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years. During his military service, he was stationed in Biloxi, Mississippi; Cape Cod, Massachusetts; and Torrejón Airbase in Madrin, Spain. While serving his country, he received training in electronics, a field that became his lifelong profession. Following his honorable service, Howard continued a successful career in electronics, applying his knowledge and skills throughout his working years, including electronic technician and sales work with IBM, RadioShack, and Oreck. Additionally, Howard had an entrepreneurial passion and started his own business, Avant Guard, in 1977, where he sold and managed alarm systems for businesses and homes, serving his community for many years, helping to keep his customers and their property safe. 

A man of deep faith, Howard was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Throughout his life, he faithfully served in many capacities within the Church and was especially devoted to temple service. He found great joy in participating in and assisting with sacred temple ordinances as a shift leader, serving others, and strengthening his testimony of Jesus Christ.  His dedicated service strengthened his testimony and reflected his enduring love for the gospel and for those around him.

Howard is survived by his daughters: Holly Smith of Florida and her husband, Ray Smith; Heather Dooley of Virginia and her husband, Allen Dooley; Heidi Gerth of New York and her husband, Fred Gerth; Hope Paquet of Maine and her husband, Will Paquet; Harmony Pitcher of New York; and Hailey Pitcher of New York and her partner, Phil Kazolias. He is also survived by his sister, Barbara Robie of New York; his brother, Don Pitcher and his wife, Regina of Idaho; and other beloved family members, Scott Heath, Shanna Toney, and Chris Heath.

 

Howard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Katherine A. Pitcher; his son, Heath Pitcher; his sister, Jo-Ann Villani; his brother-in-law and long-time best friend, Jimmy Robie, and his parents, Austin H. Pitcher and Ella F. Pitcher.

Howard leaves behind a large and loving family, including 32 grandchildren, as well as many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, extended family members, and friends who will cherish his memory and carry forward his legacy.

Howard's greatest joys were his family and his faith. He leaves behind a legacy of service, devotion, perseverance, and love. Those who knew him will remember his example, his testimony, and the lasting impact he had on the lives of others.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 13749 Reams Rd., Windermere, FL 34786. Interment will take place on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery with military honors, located at 5525 U.S. Route 1, Mims, FL 32754.

The family takes comfort in knowing that Howard's faith sustained him throughout his life and that his love and example will continue to bless future generations.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

May he rest in peace.