Howard Delain Killian

Howard Delain Killian, age 85, of Texarkana, Arkansas, passed away on March 11, 2026, at Christian Care Center in Texarkana, Texas.

Born on May 7, 1940, in Dierks, Arkansas, Howard was a longtime member of Eylau Community Church and a Mason. He spent his career as an industrial engineer with AT&T. He had a deep love for genealogy, cherished vacations with his family—especially trips to the beach—and held a special affection for his farm in Dierks and his dog Bella.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie W. and Zelmaree Harberson Killian; his aunt, Velma Harberson; and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Judy and Jim Gillespie and Harold and Mary Axton.

Howard is survived by his wife of 65 years, Melba Killian; his son, Steve Killian (Cathy) of Bella Vista, Arkansas; his daughter, Stephanie Francis (Mitch) of Texarkana, Arkansas; six grandchildren, Nick Francis (Jennifer) of Joshua, Texas, Katie Killian of Springfield, Missouri, Tom Killian (Pepe) of New Jersey, Zak Killian (Jasmine) of Centerton, Arkansas, Hannah Kemp (Kelly) of Seminole, Oklahoma, and Matt Francis (Maddie) of Arlington, Texas; four great-grandchildren with one on the way; his brother-in-law, Carroll Axton (Sara) of Georgetown, Texas; and his niece, Brittany Nugent (Seth) of Texarkana, Texas.