Tributes

Richard "Rick" W. Howard, 72, a visionary developer, devoted family man, and lifelong son of Southern Iredell County, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025, in Mooresville, North Carolina. Known for his deep love of his hometown and his gift for turning vision into reality, Rick devoted his life to building a stronger, more vibrant community for future generations. Born in Mount Mourne in 1952, Rick was part of a rare and cherished legacy - three generations of his family, including his mother, himself, and his son Brad, all attended the historic Mount Mourne School. This connection reflected not only the family's deep roots in the community, but also their enduring commitment to education and local tradition. Community Builder & Developer Rick played a pivotal role in Mooresville's transformation from a traditional mill town into the vibrant, diverse community it is today. He was an entrepreneur who loved creating and building businesses, including American Display, Carolina Component Concepts, The Langtree Group, and numerous other service, entertainment, and hospitality businesses. These ventures supported the region's growth and positioned Mooresville as a place where business, culture, and community could thrive together. As Principal of Langtree, Rick brought to life landmark projects that blended respect for the region's history with forward-looking development. His most notable, Langtree at the Lake, a mixed-use development at Interstate 77 and Lake Norman, became a model for smart, community-minded planning. Designed over two decades, the community combines residential, commercial, and recreational spaces in a way that preserves local heritage while laying a foundation for future generations to enjoy. Beyond Langtree at the Lake, Rick envisioned and developed The Langtree Plantation Event Venue, a cherished gathering place for celebrations and milestones. Most recently, his efforts turned toward repurposing the historic Mount Mourne School, which is being transformed into Trinity Christian Academy, reflecting his commitment to education and honoring local history. Civic Service & Leadership Rick's dedication went far beyond business. He gave countless hours to public service, serving in leadership and advisory roles across nonprofit and civic organizations. Chairman of the Lake Norman Marine Commission, guiding initiatives for lake safety, environmental stewardship, and responsible recreation. Board Member of the Mount Mourne Fire Department, advocating for improved fire and emergency services to protect his community. Board Member of Hope of Mooresville, providing temporary, supportive housing for Mooresville's homeless women and children. Devoted member of Fairview United Methodist Church, where he supported ministries, outreach, and the spiritual life of the congregation. Through these and many other organizations, Rick continuously invested his time, energy, and resources into strengthening the very community in which he was born. A Lasting Legacy From witnessing Lake Norman's waters first rise to watching Interstate 77 reshape the region, Rick experienced the transformation of his hometown firsthand. His life's work balanced honoring history with forging opportunity, ensuring Southern Iredell County would flourish for generations to come. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn and Paul Howard. He is survived by his beloved wife, Pam Howard, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and partnership; his son, Brad Howard; Brad's wife, Nikki; and their children, Asher, Beckett, and Lachlyn. He will be deeply missed by extended family, friends, and colleagues who will remember his generosity, integrity, and steadfast love for Lake Norman. Rick was the kind of man who could see both what a place was and what it could be. He had a gift for bringing people together - whether it was over a shared vision for the community, a Sunday at church, or a family gathering. He loved big ideas but cherished the small moments, conversations with friends, and the satisfaction of seeing others succeed. Rick's legacy lives on in every family who finds a home in the communities he helped create, every business that thrives in the commercial spaces he developed, and every visitor who experiences the natural beauty and modern conveniences of the Lake Norman region that he helped shape. His life's work stands as a permanent testament to the positive impact one person can have on their community when guided by vision, integrity, and a deep love for the place they call home. "You cannot drive through Mount Mourne, Langtree, or Southern Iredell County without experiencing his impact to the community where he was born." Services in Remembrance Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 23, from 6-8 p.m. at Cavin-Cook Funeral Home, 494 E Plaza Dr, Mooresville, NC 28115. Funeral services will follow on Sunday, August 24, from 3-4 p.m. at Fairview United Methodist Church, 1426 Mecklenburg Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28115. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Fairview United Methodist Church (www.fairviewumc.org/give), Mitchell Mack Hospice House (apps.hoic.org/donate-now), or Hope of Mooresville (www.hopeofmooresville.org/donate/), continuing Rick's lifelong commitment to investing in the future of his community. Cavin-Cook Funeral Home and Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Howard family. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.

Tributes

Richard "Rick" Wayne Howard

November 27, 1952 - August 15, 2025