Celebrating the Life of Darryll “Kawn” Howard
Darryll “Kawn” Howard, 56, passed away on October 5, 2026, at Riverside Hospice House in Columbus, Ohio, surrounded by love. Born in Ironton, Ohio, and raised in Portsmouth, Ohio, Kawn lived a life that could never be summed up simply by where he was born, where he worked, or where he lived. His journey took him across the country, including time spent in Las Vegas. If there was an adventure to be had, a new place to experience, or a story to bring home to his family, chances are Kawn found it. Kawn eventually made Circleville, Ohio, his home, where he worked, built friendships, and became an active part of the community. He especially enjoyed being involved in local theater, which perfectly complemented his lifelong love of theater, dance, and music. If you asked his family what Kawn did for a living, the answer might simply be, “What didn’t he do?” Kawn worked in just about every industry imaginable. His many jobs, travels, and adventures left his family with countless stories and memories that will be told, and probably laughed about, for generations. No matter where he worked, however, one thing remained consistent: Kawn had a gift for people. He had the biggest heart and provided the kind of customer service that came naturally because he genuinely cared about those around him. Kawn loved life. He loved to travel, experience new places, listen to music, dance, enjoy the theater, and see the world. Anyone who sat across the table from him with a deck of cards knew one thing for certain: Kawn did not play about Spades. He was a serious player, and the competition was real. Kawn was the beloved son of his mother, Donna Gail Howard, and father, William Steven Green, and the stepson of Donald Malone Sr. He shared his life and memories with his siblings, Dawnyetta, D.J., Tiera, Enricka, LaToshia, Cortland, Celeste, Monica, and Claire. He also shared a special place in the lives of his nephews, Peyton and Deuce.
More than anything, Kawn loved his family and friends. He had a special bond with his mother, Donna, and the two were inseparable. When you saw one, you saw the other. They took care of each other, and there was no doubt that his mother was the most important person in Kawn’s life. His heart was big enough to make people feel welcomed, valued, and remembered. Among the friendships he treasured was the special bond he shared with his best friend, Cait. While his family and friends will deeply miss his presence, his life leaves behind something that cannot be measured in years: stories. Stories that will make them laugh, stories that will make them shake their heads, stories they may have heard a hundred times and will gladly tell a hundred more. Although his journey here has ended, the stories of Kawn are far from over. His family will continue telling them. Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life honoring Darryll “Kawn” Howard will be held on Monday, October 12, 2026, at Wellman Funeral Home, 1455 North Court Street, Circleville, Ohio 43113. The family will greet relatives and friends beginning at 5:00 p.m., with the Celebration of Life service beginning at 6:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that contributions be made directly to Wellman Funeral Home on behalf of Darryll “Kawn” Howard to assist with his funeral expenses. The family is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, kindness, and support shown during this difficult time. Online condolences can be made at www.wellmanfuneralhomes.com.
Full service details and the family guest book are available at Wellman Funeral Home-Circleville.