Howard Lee Sword

Howard Lee Sword, of Kingsport, went to his heavenly home Wednesday, January 1, 2014. He was a United States Marine and a Vietnam Veteran. Howard worked for Kingsport Press for 29 years and coached baseball, basketball, and soccer for North Kingsport Optimist Club. Howard was a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Buretta Sword.

Howard is survived by his wife, Paula Sword of Kingsport; two sons, Eric Sword and fiancée of Kingsport, and Jeffrey Sword and wife, Bronwyn of Bristol; three grandchildren, Payton, Savannah and Scott; two brothers, Bill Sword and wife, Barbara of Church Hill, and Rick Sword and wife, Sharon of Church Hill; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends on Saturday from 1-2:00 pm at Souls Harbor Church Hill Church of God. A memorial service will follow at 2:00 pm with Pastor Allen Jervey officiating. Military Rites will be conducted by American Legion Posts 3/265.