Col. Jack Sheldon Howe, USAF (Ret.)'s Obituary
Colonel Jack Sheldon Howe, USAF (Ret.), aged 86, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025. He was able to be with his wife, Martha Barineau Howe of 58 years, in his beloved home up until his passing.
Born on May 18, 1939, in Flint, Michigan, Jack was the eldest of three children of John Greenleaf Howe and Virginia Sheldon, both educators. He graduated from Central High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Western Michigan University, followed by a master’s degree in business administration from Ball State University.
In 1962, Jack was commissioned by the Air Force as a Security Police Officer, dedicating his life to serving his country.
His pursuit of knowledge continued during his military career at Arizona State University, Florida State University, Northwestern University, University of Georgia, University of Southern California, and the University of Virginia. Jack completed several advanced military education programs including the Air War College, Industrial College of Armed Forces, Air Command and Staff College and the FBI National Academy.
While stationed at Hurlburt Field, he met the love of his life Martha Barineau in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Soon after they met, he was sent to Vietnam at Tan Son Nhut Air Base. During his time in Vietnam, Jack went on R&R to Hickam Air Force Base in Honolulu, Hawaii, where he and Martha married.
Jack served as Security Police (now known as Security Forces) Squadron and Group Commander in Arizona, Florida, Germany, Illinois and New Mexico. In Washington D.C., he served in the Joint Service Military Police Organization at Washington Navy Yard. While stationed in Hawaii he served on the staff of Pacific Air Forces (PACAF). At Kirtland AFB, New Mexico, he served as Group Commander of the 377th. Jack also served as Group Commander in a sensitive job at a Belgian AB. For his last assignment, he was stationed at Kirtland AFB a second time, serving as the Director of Inspections for the Defense Nuclear Agency for all services.
His 30 years of service is most notably honored with the Bronze Star with Valor from Vietnam along with 14 other awards and decorations for distinguished service and merit.
Jack was a man of energy and passion, whose life was defined by both adventure and artistry. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed the freedom he found in skiing, sailing, kayaking and cycling, especially with his Quincy and Tallahassee friends. His competitive spirit showed on the tennis court and in the countless marathons he ran, a testament to his determination. Jack was multi-talented, innovative and creative. He loved woodworking projects small and large. He enjoyed photography, watercolor and oil painting. He found joy in exploring each place the Air Force sent him and his family. His granddaughter brought him pride with her tennis matches; hugs and the time she spent with him. His love for sports cars was a lifelong passion he passed on to his grandson. Through every pursuit, he lived fully, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, courage, creativity, and craftsmanship.
He is survived by his wife, Martha Barineau Howe of Quincy, FL, his daughter Holly Nix (Jonathan) of Santa Rosa Beach, FL, his daughter Bettsy Mitchell of Havana, FL, his two grandchildren, and his two sisters, Pam Hazlett and Peggy Derby.
The service will be held at the Tallahassee National Cemetery on June 20, 2025 at 10:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Quincy, Florida, 306 North Madison Street, Quincy, Florida 32351.
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