Howard Earl Pointer was the second child of the late Powtan Howard Pointer and Anna Laura Pointer (née McMillan). He was  born in St. Louis, Missouri, on April 12, 1940. Howard professed a hope in Christ at an early age and sustained that faith  throughout his life. He entered eternal rest on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the Washington VA Medical Center. 

Howard grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, where he attended public schools and graduated with honors from the Maplewood– Richmond Heights School District. A gifted athlete, he excelled in wrestling and football, earning both All-District and All-State  recognition. 

He matriculated at Howard University in Washington, DC, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1962 and later a Doctor  of Dental Surgery degree in 1976. 

In 1963, Howard entered the United States Army, serving as a Medical Laboratory Technician, Autopsy Technician, and  Histochemical Technician. His military service took him around the world, including Bangkok, Thailand, where he established  a tissue culture and histochemistry laboratory for the Thailand Army. 

On July 10, 1965, Howard married the love of his life, Betty M. McGuire, with whom he shared 58 years of devoted marriage  until her passing on September 29, 2023. Although they had no biological children, many lovingly regarded them as “Mom and  Dad” because of their open home, generous hospitality, and joyful spirit. You could always stop by for a laugh or a good  home-cooked meal. 

Upon returning from Asia, and while still on active duty, Howard was accepted into Howard University’s College of Dentistry  under the sponsorship of the U.S. Army. After receiving his DDS, Dr. Pointer completed a General Practice Residency at the  Dwight David Eisenhower Army Medical Center in Fort Gordon, Georgia. He later practiced dentistry at Fort Myer (VA), Fort  Meade (MD), and Walter Reed Army Medical Center (DC) until retiring from the U.S. Army Reserve on March 31, 1990, with  the rank of Major. 

Dr. Pointer continued his professional service as a dental officer for the District of Columbia from August 27, 1985, to October  1, 1999, and operated a private practice in Wheaton, Maryland, until his retirement. 

Howard held a deep and abiding love for his church, Reid Temple AME, where he dedicated himself faithfully for many years.  He distinguished himself by serving as a committed member of the Trustee Board, the JAPLO Lay Organization, Treasurer of  the Reid Temple Community Development Corporation (RCDC), an active participant in the Military Support Ministry, a proud  member of the Mighty Men of Reid Temple choir, and a devoted Sunday School teacher. His service was not just duty — it was  joy, purpose, and community. 

Beyond the church walls, Howard embraced life with enthusiasm. He traveled the world, skied with confidence, entertained  with flair, cooked with heart, and hosted unforgettable pool parties in his backyard with his wife, Betty — gatherings filled  with laughter, music, and the warmth of his hospitality. 

Howard will be remembered for his sharp humor, his unwavering willingness to help others, his bold and vibrant personality,  and his legendary “tall tales.” These stories, told with such vivid detail and charm, left listeners captivated — and often  delightfully fooled — until the very end. 

His presence was a gift, his stories a treasure, and his spirit a light that will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew him. 

Professional & Civic Memberships 

• Founder and President, Outer District of Columbia Dental Society, National Dental Association • Trustee, National Dental Association 

• Member, American Dental Society; Maryland State Dental Association 

• Board Member, Black Ski Inc.; Co-Founder and Board Member, Black Ski Youth Foundation • 32nd Degree Mason and Past Master, Prince Hall Lodge #14 

• Member, Order of the Eastern Star, Prince Hall Chapter #5 

Howard leaves to cherish his memory with great love and admiration: niece, Anna Hollins (Garland); great-niece, Tave  Hollins; nephew, Ronald Ray (Veronica), all of St. Louis, Missouri; goddaughters, Kelli Johnson (Lamarr) and Lydia  Williams; godsons, Aaron White and Felix Turnage; along with a host of cousins, relatives, and countless friends.

 

 

 

.