Thomas Francis Howard Jr.

Thomas Francis Howard, Jr., age 79, of Arlington Heights, Illinois, passed away on February 2, 2026. Born on September 1, 1946, in Quincy, Massachusetts, Tom lived a life defined by devotion to family, a sharp intellect, and a presence that filled every room he entered.

Tom was the beloved husband of Patricia (Koehler) Howard and a devoted father to five children: Thomas (Lori), Christopher (Christina), Michael (Tiffany), Patricia (Daniel), and Kelly (Mark). He was a proud and deeply engaged grandfather to Thomas, John, Charles, Kevin, Daniel, Grace, Emily, Edward, Lydia, Anna, Olivia, and Isabella, each of whom brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his siblings Patricia, Kevin, Mary, Kathleen, Christopher, and Anne. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Edna Howard.

A graduate of the University of Maryland, where he earned both his undergraduate and law degrees, Tom built a distinguished legal career. He served as a former prosecutor, worked as a private investigator, and maintained a private legal practice. He also served as Village Attorney for the Village of Bloomingdale. Polished, articulate, and always impeccably dressed—especially in a suit—Tom brought a larger-than-life presence to his professional and personal life alike.

Above all else, Tom lived a life in service to his family. He took immense pride in their lives and accomplishments. He coached all of his children in basketball, embracing the role with enthusiasm and a competitive spirit. As a grandparent, he was unwaveringly devoted and generous with his time.

Tom was an avid reader and had an endlessly curious mind. He loved spirited discussion and a good story. He had a fondness for Irish music and the joy of lively conversation.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Salerno’s Rosedale Chapels, 450 W. Lake Street, Roselle, Illinois. A Funeral Mass will follow at 10:45 a.m. at St. Isidore Parish, 427 W. Army Trail Road, Bloomingdale, Illinois. A livestream of the funeral mass will be available at the following link: https://vimeo.com/event/684187 

Tom will be remembered as a devoted husband, parent and grandparent, a man who gave everything he had to the people he loved, and who will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.