Edward Mills Howard entered this world on a Friday, September 2, 1910, in the city of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA, as the eighth of ten children born to James Robert Howard and Lula Monica Mills. His father, James, initially pursued a career in farming, before transitioning to a role as a carpentry foreman for the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, and eventually establishing himself as a successful building contractor. Edward's family was comprised of six brothers and three sisters, contributing to a lively and dynamic household environment.
Edward's occupational identity was established as a bricklayer in the 1930 U.S. Census, a designation that was confirmed following his sophomore year at Tuscaloosa Senior High School. This particular profession was noted in the census records, providing insight into Edward's early career endeavors.
In 1935, Edward tied the knot with Bernyce Eva Bell, a legal secretary, in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California, USA. This union marked a significant milestone in Edward's personal life, as he began a new chapter with his spouse.
Fast-forward to 1940, and Edward, now accompanied by his wife Bernyce, was residing in the charming coastal city of Santa Monica. At this point, Edward's professional pursuits had shifted, as he was employed as a route man for a laundry. This new occupation likely presented a fresh set of challenges and opportunities for Edward to grow both personally and professionally.
However, despite the promising beginnings of their relationship, Edward and Bernyce's marriage ultimately came to an end in the early 1940s, resulting in a divorce. This development would have undoubtedly had a profound impact on both individuals, as they navigated the complexities of their personal lives.
Edward's acting career began with a humble start, comprising six minor, uncredited roles across the years 1942, 1943, and 1944. This marked the beginning of his journey in the world of acting, setting the stage for the many roles that would follow.
As the years progressed, Edward's career took a significant turn in 1945, as he appeared in a total of fifteen B-westerns, showcasing his remarkable versatility as an actor. This period was crucial in shaping his acting style and honing his skills, allowing him to take on a wide range of roles.
The final chapter of Edward's acting career in 1946 featured him in various roles, with one of his most notable appearances being as Dunc Rankin in the film Thunder Town. This role stood out as a highlight of his career, and it was also his next-to-last film appearance, marking the end of an era for the talented actor.
Edward's life was tragically abbreviated due to a prolonged and debilitating illness that had beset him for several months, ultimately claiming his life on a Monday, September 16, 1946, within the walls of a Los Angeles hospital.
In the days that followed, his funeral service was held on Friday, September 20, 1946, in the very town where he had spent his formative years, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA.
As the final farewell was bid, Edward's mortal remains were laid to rest in Evergreen Cemetery, where his eternal slumber was secured, marking the end of his earthly journey.
