REVEREND RONNIE PAUL HOWERTON

Reverend Ronnie Paul Howerton, 75, of Monett passed away on Friday morning, Jan. 20, following a battle with cancer.  
He was born on Feb. 7, 1947 in Aurora, son of the late Edward Paul Howerton and Mary Ann (Fisher) Howerton. He graduated from Monett High School with the class of 1965 and then furthered his education at the Rolla School of Engineering.
In 1968, he enlisted in the Army National Guard where he served for over eight years. His calling in life was that of a Pastor. He began his Ministry at Maria-TA-Heights Fundamental Methodist Church in Springfield, followed by Easyville Fundamental Methodist Church, Aurora Fundamental Methodist Church and Grace Independent Methodist Church in Monett. He was also instrumental in the founding of the Berean Christian Academy in Monett.  
On Nov. 24, 1967, he married Deloris Pryor, in Monett. To this union, they were blessed with three children and over fifty-five years of wonderful memories made together.  
He is survived by his wife, Deloris; two sons, Wyatt Howerton and wife Kristin, Pierce City and Matt Howerton and wife Christy, of Russellville, Ark.; one daughter, Rhonda Copeland and husband Josh, of Monett; 13 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one brother, John Howerton and wife Kathy; sisters and brothers-in-laws, Olafae Ennes and husband Verdayne, Lonell Ward and husband Jeff and Kenny Pryor and wife Dianne; as well as a host of special nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Funeral services were held on Monday, Jan. 23, at Grace Independent Methodist Church with Reverend Lonnie Burks and Reverend Mike Hutsell officiating. Interment followed at Sparks Cemetery, Butterfield. Visitation was held on Sunday at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions have been suggested to Seasons Hospice or Berean Christian Academy in care of the funeral home. Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett.