It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Howard Earl Emond Jr., affectionately known as Howie, who left us on April 8, 2025, in Venice, Florida. He was born in New Britain, Connecticut, and touched many lives throughout his journey, which spanned both his home state and the sunshine of Florida.

Howie was the beloved son of Howard Earl Emond Sr. and Margaret (Apisso) Emond, who preceded him in death along with his cherished son, Christopher Alan Emond. He is survived by his devoted wife, Cecily (Leel) Emond, with whom he shared a beautiful marriage of 43 years, having wed on April 10, 1982, in Agawam, Massachusetts. Howie’s legacy continues through his surviving children, son Matthew Emond and his wife Laura Emond, daughter Jodi Emond and her husband Jeremy Carson, and his adored grandsons, Oliver Emond and Ryder Carson. He is also survived by his brothers, Robert Emond and his wife Sandy and Dr. Ronald Emond and his wife Debbie, who will remember him fondly.

A proud alumnus of St. Thomas Aquinas High School in New Britain (Class of 1965) and Fairfield University (Class of 1969), Howie furthered his education by earning a Master’s degree from the University of Hartford, followed by his Juris Doctor from Western New England College School of Law. He began his career as a history teacher before transitioning into the legal field, dedicating over 25 years to the State of Connecticut Judicial Branch. His journey in public service started as an Assistant Clerk in Putnam, CT, culminating in his role as Deputy Director of Attorney Services for the State of Connecticut. 

Howie actively participated in local politics, serving on the Willington and Region 19 Boards of Education. He was one of the founding members, instrumental in forming The Sentinel Party in Willington. He also spearheaded the introduction of the football program at E.O. Smith High School, and later served as President of the Football Booster Club. His passion for youth sports was evident as he coached Little League baseball, youth football, and local travel and AAU basketball teams for many years, touching the lives of countless young athletes.

An avid softball player, Howie continued to play into his 70's in a senior league in Florida. He was a fitness and exercise buff. He was a lifelong New England Patriots fan, holding season tickets for the last 15 years. He cherished the moments spent traveling with his family, particularly to York Beach, Maine, and Boca Grande, Florida. After retiring, Howie and Cecily enjoyed their lives as “snowbirds,” splitting their time between Connecticut and Florida for the last 12 years of their lives together.

The funeral service for Howie will be held on April 26, 2025, at 12:00 PM at D'Esopo Funeral Chapel, located at 277 Folly Brook Blvd., Wethersfield, CT 06109. A private burial will follow at Willington Hill Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA) in honor of Howie's hard-fought battle with the debilitating disease.   

As we remember Howie, we celebrate a life filled with love, dedication, and service. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of kindness, commitment to community, and love for his family will endure in the hearts of many.