Howard Lee Britt's Obituary
MSGT Howard Lee Britt, age 97, made his final flight, destination heaven, on January 13, 2016. He passed peacefully, with family by his side, in the home he built .
Howard served his country proudly for 30 years as a member of the United States Air Force from 1940-1970. He is a retired veteran of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He grew up in Goldsboro, North Carolina, the oldest son of Roscoe Britt and Missy Britt.
Growing up, Howard worked on the family tobacco farm. After the death of his father, he joined the United States Air Force at Fort Bragg. He served in Panama, at the embassy in Lima, Peru, England, Russia, and joined the 7th squadron in France. He decided to stay in the Air Force and sought out an assignment with the 7th squadron in Austin, Texas. In 1947 the 7th squadron was assigned to McCord Air Force Base in Tacoma, Washington. In 1952 the 7th troop carrier squadron moved to Larson Air Force Base in Moses Lake, WA until they returned to McCord in June of 1960. During his time in the service Howard was awarded the honor of flying over 16,000 hours during which time he was able to fly around the world and from pole to pole. The pride and patriotism he learned in the Air Force never left him, as family and friends will attest.
Following retirement Howard enjoyed fishing, rhododendron growing and propagation, cruising around the country pulling his airstream and covering every state in the union.
Howard met his beloved wife Dedrikka Britt on McCord Air Force Base in 1950. The two would later marry on March 21, 1953 in Ephrata, Washington and spent 63 beautiful years of marriage together. He passed away with her hand in his.
Survived by his wife Dedrikka; 3 children, Ross (Jane), Eric, and Deidre (Per). He also leaves behind 4 grandchildren, Travis, Alana and their mother Katherine, Brittany, Christina and great-granddaughter Taylor.
A graveside committal service with Military Honors will be held Monday, January 18, 12:30 PM at Mountain View Funeral Home and Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to Franciscan Hospice who provided exceptional care for Howard during the final year of his life.
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