Howard Speller Jr.

Howard Speller, Jr. of Virginia Beach, 81, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, May 18, 2022, surrounded by his loving family.

On April 28, 1941, Howard was born to the late Howard Ruffin, Sr., and Pearl Ruffin. Howard graduated from the Norfolk Public School System and soon after, enlisted in the United States Army. He worked for the International Longshoreman Association, Local 1248, following his service in the armed forces until he retired. Most friends knew him by the nickname “La La,” and his family would refer to him as “Poo.”

Howard joined the United House of Prayer in 1995 under the pastoral administration of Apostle C. Price in Hickory, VA. He attended the United House of Prayer in Burton in Virginia Beach, VA., under the Apostle C. Sutton. He always talked about loving the spiritual sounds of the bands and choirs. Howard had a passion for many things, working in his yard, watching westerns, and especially reading, which kept him up-to-date and well informed. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family.

Howard leaves to cherish his memory of his loving wife of 61 years, Willie Mae Speller; daughter, Doris Lee Sutton, Ph.D. (Curtis); three sons, Howard Speller, III (Ruth), Tony A. Speller (Lisa), Dexster Speller (Demosha), Calvin A. Knight (a grandson that he raised as his own); sister, Shirley Speller-Shortt; nephew, Richard Speller; twelve grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

Fathers are remarkable individuals. They give life, nurture it, and nourish it. Howard was not only a kindhearted father but also a wonderful husband. A father like Howard is rare, generous, intelligent, caring, and kind.