Requiescat in Pace, Daniel Walker Howe

Beloved of St. Alban’s,

It is with deep sorrow, and with profound gratitude, that I share the news that Daniel Walker Howe, beloved parishioner of St. Alban’s, died peacefully at his home on Christmas morning.

Dan was a towering presence in the life of St. Alban's, not only because of his extraordinary scholarly accomplishments, but because of his deep faith, generous spirit, and steadfast love for this community. As a warden, vestry member, Sunday School teacher, and stalwart member of our parish community, Dan gave himself fully to the life of this parish, offering his wisdom, curiosity, and leadership in service of the Church he loved.

Together with Sandra, Dan was a pillar of our parish: faithful in worship, generous in friendship, and committed to the life of the mind as an expression of faith. Generations of parishioners were shaped by his teaching, encouraged by his counsel, and enriched by his presence. The Howe Lectures, which bear his and Sandra’s names, stand as a living testament to Dan’s conviction that faith and reason belong together, and that the Church is called to thoughtful engagement with the world God loves.

That Dan was called home on Christmas morning feels especially tender. On the day we proclaim that the light shines in the darkness, we entrust Dan to the God whose truth he sought so faithfully, and whose grace he trusted so deeply.

We hold Sandra, their children, grandchildren, and all who loved Dan in our prayers as they mourn. Funeral arrangements will be shared as they become available.

As we commend Dan’s soul to Almighty God, I invite you to join me in prayer:

Into your hands, O merciful Savior, we commend your servant Dan.
Acknowledge, we humbly beseech you, a sheep of your own fold,
a lamb of your own flock, a sinner of your own redeeming.
Receive him into the arms of your mercy,
into the blessed rest of everlasting peace,
and into the glorious company of the saints in light.
—Book of Common Prayer, p. 499

May Dan rest in peace and rise in glory.
May light perpetual shine upon him.
And may the peace of Christ, born anew at Christmas, surround all who mourn.