It is with profound sorrow that the family of the Honorable Mr. Jabah Galakpai Maza Korkor Howard—affectionately known as Jay—announces his passing on the morning of May 2, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan.
A cherished son, devoted husband of 42 years to Priscilla Goaneh Howard, a brother, an uncle, cousin, distinguished statesman, philanthropist, and professional mechanical engineer.
Jay’s departure leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew him.
Jay courageously battled a severe health condition diagnosed in early 2024, a struggle marked by resilience and dignity. His life journey began humbly in Liberia and unfolded across the United States, where he devoted himself not only to his family and profession but also to the empowerment of youth in his native Fissibu District, Lofa County, Liberia.
A visionary with a heart for community development, Jay spearheaded the creation of the Fissibu Youth Center. Guided by faith and tireless effort, he oversaw its construction during his frequent travels to Liberia, ensuring it was a testament to sweat equity and a beacon for youth empowerment. The center stands today as a lasting legacy of his commitment to fostering progress and opportunity for future generations.
Jay worked in a series of professional capacities in the public sector as an Engineer, Project Manager and an Administrator; such as the Deputy Executive Director – Operation for the largest school district in the State of Michigan, the Detroit Public Schools, as well as the Assistant Director for the Detroit Housing Department once the fifth largest housing authority in the United States.
Jay was also the founder and partner of a start-up construction engineering firm, Maza Construction Engineering Inc. consulting with the Marathon Petroleum Company-Detroit Refinery through “TNT Staff Pro Inc”. Mr. Howard earned his Master of Science in Administration (MSA) in 1991 from Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant Michigan, Bachelor of Science-Mechanical Engineering (BSME) in 1979, from Lawrence Technological University, Southfield Michigan.
Jay is mourned deeply by his children Hawah Howard Willis (Cifric), Jeremy Galakpai Howard, Dr. Marvhe G. Howard (Mariana), and Binyah J. Howard. His family extends through many relatives in Liberia and the United States—including his late parents John Z. Howard and Korlu Younger Wuelleh, (that predeceased him), siblings, Lwopu G. Kandakai & children; Yassah Poiboi & children and several other siblings. Stepmother – Gaydour Howard & children; Only surviving Aunt – Yarma Wuelleh Diakollie & children and a host of other relatives including: Korbalagar Quarter; Wuolomai Quarter; The Wuelleh family; The Wollokollie family; Wuovelah family
Jay’s loss have also impacted his very dear life long brothers and sisters in love, who he spent all of his married life around; Alvin Mocco & Eunice Harris; Augustus & Juliette Euin Vanderpuye; Julius Konah Goaneh (Mala); Ophelia Goaneh Ratcliffe, many nieces; nephews
Also mourning him are his adopted parents/family in USA; Phyllis Graham (97 years young), Garfield Graham (deceased), brother – Dr. Lawrence Reynolds (Jackie), brother who travelled to Liberia with him in 1984, and a host of other Reynolds and Graham siblings, nieces and nephews
In honor of Jay’s enduring spirit and philanthropic vision, the family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, monetary donations should be made to organizations supporting ongoing projects in his name, including the Federation of Lofa Association in the Americas (FLAA), the Fissibu Youth Center, (A Project by J. Galakpai Howard and the youth of Fissibu geared towards building maintenance for the youth especially), and the Liberian Association of Michigan. These contributions will help sustain the work Jay so passionately championed. Contributions to any of these entities can be made to the Liberian Association of Michigan via Cash App, Zelle, and or $LAMliberians 313-356-9438 Attn: J. Galakpai Howard Legacy Fund
Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Jay’s kindness and leadership are invited to join in commemorating his remarkable life.
Visitation:
O. H. Pye, III Funeral Home
17600 Plymouth Road, Detroit, Michigan 48227
Date: Friday, June 5, 2026
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Service to be held at:
O. H. Pye, III Funeral Home
17600 Plymouth Road, Detroit, Michigan 48227 Family Hour:
Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
Time: 2:30 p.m.
Funeral:
Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Jay, your legacy of love, service, and dedication endures beyond words. You are dearly missed, not only as a friend and family member but as a guiding light whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
Contacts:
Priscilla Howard (313)303 5089
Lwopu G. Kandakai 231-886517174 / 231-77926272
Alvin Harris (301) 356-2385 / 231-889008164
Eunice Harris (301) 641-8987 / 231-889008163
Juliette Vanderpuye (469) 443 2910
