Published on May 7, 2025 6:24 am
Last Updated on May 7, 2025 10:00 am
Howard Tommy Oliver, age 6, of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 2:13 pm on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, surrounded by his loving family.
Howard was born on January 28, 2019, in Centralia, Illinois, the son of Breece Oliver and Olivia Rogers. Howard’s short life was filled with an abundance of joy and personality. He touched countless hearts with his infectious spirit and unwavering enthusiasm. A lover of Minecraft, he spent countless hours immersed in its virtual worlds. His energy was contagious; he delighted in creating spontaneous dance parties, filling every room with laughter and movement. Howard possessed a remarkable outspokenness, never hesitating to share his thoughts and opinions with honesty and charm. He was a dedicated collector, exhibiting a determined spirit to complete any series he began, whether it be toys, Pokémon Cards, or anything that captured his interest.
Howard’s faith was an important part of his life. He was affiliated with the Louisville First Baptist Church, where he found joy and comfort in listening to his Uncle Kelly. While his time with us was far too brief, Howard’s memory will forever be cherished by those who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and the unwavering spirit of a boy who lived life to the fullest.
Howard is survived by his parents: Breece Oliver and Olivia Rogers of Mt. Vernon; maternal grandparents: Linda (Tim) Merta of Salem; paternal grandparents: Joe Oliver of Centralia, and Samantha Lemarr of Woodlawn; a paternal great grandmother: Lorre Winter of Salem; 3 aunts: Sasha Neubauer of Jacksonville, Arkansas, Zoe Lemarr of Centralia, and Bailey Lemarr of Salem. Howard was excited, he was going to be a big brother to his little sister on the way: Amelia Jeans Oliver.
Howard was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather: Charles Rogers; paternal great grandfather: Howard Winter.
Funeral services to celebrate Howard’s life will be held at 4:00 pm, Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Louisville First Baptist Church with his Uncle Kelly Carruthers and Joe Lawson officiating. Following the services cremation rites will be accorded. A visitation will be held on Saturday at the church from 3:00 to 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Family to assist with expenses. The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements and family’s care. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory of Howard, please visit mcgriffandtriplett.com