Former Indiana State Sen. Glenn Howard dies at 72 - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Former Indiana State Senator and City-County Councilor Glenn L. Howard has died, his family said Tuesday. Howard, 72, passed away Monday night as he was recuperating from surgery.

Howard was a councilor from 1975 to 1992 and served as a state senator from 1992-2009. He was married to Florence Ragland Howard for 37 years and is the father of Glenn Lamont and Tamara Golden (Erwin).

His family said in a statement, "Glenn never met a stranger and was always on the side of the underdog. An advocate of the principles of Jesus to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and love one another, Glenn will be missed by the citizens of Indianapolis and the State of Indiana."

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that a donation be sent to the Glenn Howard Junior Golf Program of Indianapolis, Pan American Plaza, 201 South Capitol Avenue, Suite 1200, Indianapolis, IN 46225-1069. The Glenn Howard Junior Golf Program of Indianapolis was founded in 1989 to teach the game of golf to inner city youth. The program is in its 23rd year.

Howard's parents were Mable Moore Howard Quarles and J. C. Howard. His parents and brother, Robert (Bobby) Howard, all preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, daughter, son, two grandsons, two brothers, as well as nieces, nephews and cousins.

Arrangements at Stuart's Mortuary are pending.

From Marion County Democratic Party Chairman Ed Treacy:

"I was saddened to learn of the passing of Glenn Howard this morning. Glenn was a tireless advocate for his constituents for thirty-two years in service in both the Indiana State Senate and the Indianapolis City-County Council. An advocate for those too often voiceless and an early leader in the Civil Rights movement, Indianapolis and Indiana are both better places because of the work Glenn did. I will personally miss him and his wonderful sense of humor. All Marion County Democrats join me in mourning the passing of Glenn Hoard and our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time."

Statement from the Indianapolis Urban League Board of Directors Chair, Perry Hines and President and CEO Joe Slash:

"The staff and the board of directors of the Indianapolis Urban League extend our deepest sympathy to family of the Honorable Glenn Howard. Senator Howard was a passionate community leader who lived his life championing causes which impacted the quality of life for minorities. From his early days as a City County Councilor, to his rise as Senator, he has always been on the front lines, always willing to ask the difficult questions and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

Senator Howard was a long-time supporter of the Indianapolis Urban League. During his days in the Indiana General Assembly, he could always be called upon to introduce legislation which directly enhanced the quality of life of our clients. He was a constant presence, lending an insightful thought, words of encouragement to our program participants and sage wisdom to our board and staff.

He is a true legacy in our community and we will celebrate his contributions for many generations to come."