Obituary of Howard J. Alston

Howard Alston, affectionately known as “Howie”, was born September 16, 1961 in Boston, to the late Bob Boston and late Lila Alston. He quietly departed this life on July 11, 2020 while hospitalized at Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston, Ma. Howie attended Boston Public Schools and later obtained his GED. He studied Karate for several years and mastered the art, to become a black belt. He participated in karate tournaments and was very adept at defending himself. Howie was a hard worker and was employed in the construction field, as a painter for several years. He later worked in the food service industry including the Pit Stop, a barbecue take-out restaurant on Morton Street in Dorchester. Howie loved to cook and he loved to eat. "He taught karate to children at the Aswalos House YWCA, that was located on Seaver Street in Roxbury, MA. Howie was always eager to help others, he never complained and rarely had anything negative to say. When all of his immediate family members gradually moved to warmer climates, Howie remained in Boston and weathered the storms. He enjoyed travelling to visit and to go fishing. Howie was a very loving, kind and compassionate person. He called some family members regularly just to check on them and to express his love despite the challenges of his own illness. He took it very hard when his mother Lila Alston passed away on November 17th, 2019. Howie was the most devoted of her children. When he could not visit her in South Carolina, he called often. " She prayed with him often ..her prayers for him and others were powerful. Howie’s love transcended generations. Howie was blessed to be a father and grandfather. He leaves a legacy in the hearts of those who loved him. Howie's loving memory will be cherished by his daughter, Barbara Jean Spruill (Dwayne) and granddaughter, Ariyhana Spruill of North Carolina. He also leaves his four siblings: Harold Alston of South Carolina, Dr. Therese Alston of Georgia, Cynthia Rock (Barry) of Georgia and Brian Alston of Hawaii, and nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. POEM ~ FROM THE HEART: A Loving Farewell to Howie from “Big Sister” Therese “Little brother” I love you… expressed it in many ways Fought hard for you during your last weeks and days The cause of your passing will remain in my heart I was not ready for you to depart Inflictions are not easy to bear But through it all you showed no fear From some you were seeking acceptance and love Courageous, spiritual and peaceful like a dove You were loving toward our mother and always receptive of her prayers But underneath it all there were some painful layers I remember that boyish smile when you opened a gift It made your spirit happy…..and gave you an uplift When I eat pastrami sandwiches I smile and think of you When I go fishing and catch something big I will remember you too Rest in peace little brother your memory will not be erased And especially your chuckle and those big-eyes on your face