Howard E. Nellis

Howard E. Nellis passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, at 11:45 a.m. on February 23, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, he lived a life defined by love, loyalty, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to those closest to him. Born on April 29, 1941, on Reservoir Street in Johnstown, to Harold & Mildred Nellis, Howard was raised in the city he cherished throughout his life. He grew up alongside his two brothers, Robert (Patricia) and Jim (Irene), and his sister Shirley. The bonds formed in his early years shaped the steady, dependable man so many came to rely on. He graduated from Johnstown High School in 1959 and began working at Witzke Garage. It was during those early years that he met the love of his life, Harriet, a meeting that would forever shape the course of his life. Howard was drafted into the United States Army in 1963. He attended boot camp at Fort Dix, New Jersey before being transferred to Stuttgart, Germany where he proudly served as a military policeman. Even while serving overseas, his heart remained firmly at home. After just one date, he knew Harriet was the woman he would marry. The engagement ring famously crossed the ocean twice before finally resting on the hand of his future bride, where it has lovingly remained for more than 60 years. Howard returned home with an honorable discharge in 1965, ready to begin the life they had dreamed of together. Howard and Harriet were married on December 18, 1965, beginning a partnership that would span six beautiful decades. He began his career at N.A. Taylor (later Lippert), often joking that he was the second person through the door after Jim Taylor himself. Over 46 years of dedicated service, he built not only a career but lifelong friendships and countless memories before retiring in 2020. Together, Howard and Harriet made their home in his beloved Johnstown, where they raised their two children, Christopher and Lisa. He found great joy in life’s simple pleasures, Friday night coffee with friends at Friendly's, a stop at Stewart's Shops for a scratch-off ticket and sharing stories wherever he went. A proud and active member of the Gloversville Bowling League and the Johnstown Eagles for over 50 years, Howard treasured the camaraderie and friendships formed through those communities. He generously gave his time to the Methodist Church and supported the Boy Scouts as his son grew within the organization. His presence was steady, his humor gentle, and his love constant. Howard recently celebrated his 60th wedding anniversary with Harriet, surrounded by the family and friends who meant so much to them—a milestone that beautifully reflected a lifetime of commitment, devotion, and enduring love. He is survived by his loving wife of over 60 years, Harriet; his children, Christopher and Lisa; his cherished grandchildren, Addison and Loghan; his beloved grand-dog, Gibson (Lisa’s faithful and much-loved companion); his step-grandsons, Troy Oathout (Samantha) and Justin Dutcher (Savana); his step-great-grandchildren, Aubree and Evelyn Oathout and Ret Dutcher; his sister, Shirley; and many beloved nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart. He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Robert (Patricia) and Jim (Irene). The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Drs. Hardies, Snider, and Tedesco for their years of compassionate care, and to the nurses of Mountain Valley Hospice -Robin, Kate, and Jessica—whose kindness, dignity, and gentle support brought comfort and peace to Howard and his family during his final days. Family and friends are invited to call on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Amico Funeral Home, 150 South Main Street, Gloversville. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. Interment will be held in the spring at Johnstown Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations in Howard’s memory be made to Mountain Valley Hospice or to a charity of your choice. Howard’s legacy lives on in the family he adored, the friendships he treasured, and the community he loved so deeply. He will be missed beyond words and remembered always with profound love and gratitude.

Howard E. Nellis

April 29, 1941 - February 23, 2026