On a bright September day in 1937, in the heart of Kansas City, Kansas, a baby boy was born to Fletcher Sr. and Tamar Howard. He was the youngest of thirteen children, a child of a bustling household filled with laughter, lessons, and love. His parents named him Adolph, but as he grew, his playful nature and infectious spirit earned him a fitting nickname—"The Kid."

Raised in the North End of Kansas City, Adolph learned the value of hard work and perseverance from an early age. He excelled in school, graduating from Sumner High before furthering his education at Donnelly College and Kansas City, Kansas Community College. His hunger for knowledge led him to business seminars and certification programs, always seeking to improve himself and his understanding of the world.

Adolph's early years were filled with ambition and adventure. He started his career at the Townhouse Hotel, learning the intricacies of service and professionalism, and later worked at The Packing House. But it was music that truly set his soul on fire. With an undeniable talent for singing, he took a leap of faith and moved to Los Angeles with his musical group, chasing dreams of stardom.

California was full of opportunities, but love has a way of changing even the best-laid plans. Back in Kansas, a woman named Ethel White had captured his heart. Despite the miles between them, their love endured. For years, Adolph tried to persuade Ethel to join him in California, but when she remained steadfast in her roots, he made the ultimate choice—love over fame. He left his group behind, returned to Kansas, and built a life with Ethel. Their love story spanned over six decades and brought them six beautiful children: Adolph Jr., twins Debra and Diane, Carla, Steven, and Darian.

Determined to provide for his growing family, Adolph took a job at International Harvester, working alongside his brother, Fletcher. When company policies prevented both brothers from holding leadership positions, Adolph made a pivotal decision—he stepped away from manufacturing and into law enforcement, joining the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department.

Becoming an officer was no easy feat. The training was rigorous, the tests demanding, but Adolph tackled them with the same determination that had guided him through life. As a patrolman, he walked the streets of Wyandotte County with a firm yet fair approach, committed to justice and community service. His career in law enforcement spanned over two decades, but a tragic accident would change his path forever.

While on duty, a driver lost control of their vehicle, striking Adolph and leaving him with severe injuries. The road to recovery was long, but ultimately, the accident forced him into early retirement in 1991. It was a difficult transition. Used to being active, he found himself facing a new challenge—one of stillness. His doctor, concerned about his health, encouraged him to stay engaged. So, Adolph found a new way to serve—first at a local bowling alley, then as a bus driver for the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, where he spent 18 years connecting with and assisting the people of his city.

But Adolph was never one to sit idly by. Retirement simply meant the beginning of a new chapter. Passionate about his community, he ventured into politics, running for County Commissioner of Wyandotte County’s 2nd District. He found his political home in the Republican Party, drawn to its emphasis on family values and national progress. His dedication did not go unnoticed. Senator Bob Dole appointed him as the Civil Rights Commissioner for the State of Kansas, a role that allowed him to advocate for fairness and equality.

His political career flourished, taking him to national conventions, presidential inaugurations, and prestigious gatherings where he rubbed shoulders with influential leaders. Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton all recognized his contributions, and his work in the Republican Party earned him awards and honors that cemented his legacy.

Beyond politics, Adolph found joy in simple pleasures. He was an avid reader, an inquisitive researcher, and a devoted journal keeper. His love for action films, westerns, and martial arts movies was matched only by his passion for competition. Whether it was bowling, playing pool (where he earned the title of “pool shark”), or dominating the card table in Bid Whist and Spades, Adolph played to win.

He was also a man who understood the importance of making memories. Traveling with his family, visiting historical sites, and ensuring his children and grandchildren experienced extravagant vacations brought him great happiness. Holidays in the Howard household were legendary, filled with delicious meals, contagious laughter, and the kind of storytelling that only a grandfather could deliver—tall tales so outrageous, they became cherished family treasures.

Though Adolph had accepted Christ at a young age, his faith deepened later in life. In his final years, he found peace in scripture, reading his Bible daily and reflecting on God’s word. When his health declined, he knew his time on Earth was drawing to a close. And when Heaven called on January 26, 2025, he answered, knowing he had fought the good fight, finished his race, and kept the faith.

He left behind a legacy of love, resilience, and service. His children, Adolph Jr., Diane, Carla, Steven, and Darian, along with his sister Jeannetta Hughes, will carry his memory forward. He now rests with his beloved wife, Ethel, his daughter Debra, and the family members who passed before him.



Adolph "The Kid" Howard Sr. lived a full, meaningful life—one that touched countless hearts and inspired all who knew him. His journey was one of purpose, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion. Though he has left this world, his story will be told for generations, and his legacy will live on.