News Summary
Howard Kirk Mardis, a respected veteran and cherished community member, has passed away unexpectedly. Known for his military service, community involvement, and strong character, he leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion. His life was marked by achievements in the Air Force and a dedication to mentoring others. Mardis is survived by his wife, daughter, and family, and a celebration of his life is planned with military honors.
Williamsburg, Virginia
Howard Kirk Mardis, a beloved veteran and community member, passed away suddenly on July 10, 2025, at the age of 62. His unexpected death has left a profound sense of sorrow among family and friends, who remember him for his service, community involvement, and strong character.
Mardis was born on February 21, 1963, in Florence, Alabama. He graduated from Coffee High School in 1981, where he was part of the celebrated State Basketball Championship Team. Following high school, he attended Samford University in Homewood, Alabama, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. Mardis was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Program and began his military career in 1985.
Over a span of 24 years, Mardis served in the United States Air Force until his retirement in 2009. His military journey included various assignments around the globe, such as Japan and Iraq, with a significant early position at Bergstrom Air Force Base in Austin, Texas. Notable among his accolades, he graduated from the Intelligence Officers School in San Angelo, Texas, and served as the Deputy Director for Intelligence at the Headquarters of Air Combat Command at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia. His deployments to Iraq were marked by exemplary service, earning him a Bronze Star for his contributions at the Multi-National Force-Iraq Headquarters.
After retiring from the Air Force, Mardis transitioned into the corporate world, dedicating 16 years to a career as a technologist and sales leader. His ability to forge connections and foster relationships was a hallmark of his professional life, enabling him to successfully expand the businesses he represented.
Mardis was not just a dedicated veteran but also a cherished friend to many. He maintained a wide circle of friends from various stages of his life, including childhood, military service, and community engagements. He was notably an ardent supporter of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team, often attending games with friends. His passion for sports was evident as he enjoyed skiing, playing tennis, and organizing annual gatherings during the NCAA Basketball Tournament.
Deeply committed to his faith in Jesus Christ, Mardis actively mentored others, guided them through personal challenges, and inspired those around him. Family was central to his life; he was a devoted husband to Yvette and a loving father to daughter Haley. The loss of his son, Joshua, in an automobile accident two years prior deeply impacted him, yet he continued to express love and appreciation for his family.
Mardis is survived by his wife, Yvette (Reynolds) Mardis; daughter, Haley Mardis; mother, Sarah Tidwell Mardis; brother, Jimmy Mardis, and sister-in-law, Terri; and sister, Debbie Mardis Collins. He was preceded in death by his father, James Mardis, and son, Joshua Mardis.
The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Celebrate Recovery, a program close to Mardis’ heart. They are thankful for the overwhelming outpouring of love and support received during this challenging time.
A celebration of life service for Mardis is scheduled for July 25, 2025, at Williamsburg Community Chapel, beginning at 11:00 AM. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM prior to the service. Following the service, burial with full military honors will take place at Williamsburg Memorial Park. Guests are invited to a reception at Kingspoint Clubhouse after the burial to honor Mardis’ memory and influence.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Colonel Howard Mardis
- Wikipedia: Air Force Officer Training School
- Dignity Memorial: Colonel Howard Mardis (Canada)
- Google Search: Howard Mardis
- Legacy.com: Joshua Mardis
- Encyclopedia Britannica: United States Air Force
- Dignity Memorial: Joshua Mardis
- Google News: Joshua Mardis
