Howard (“Howie”) Girson

GIRSON: With a broken heart, I Barbara (Barb) Cherkin Girson share that my beloved hus-band of 46 years, Howard (“Howie”) Girson, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025, surrounded by love. Howie received a devastating diagnosis of metastatic pancreatic cancer in September. He faced the months that followed with courage, determination and sprinkled with levity. He pursued treatment at The James Cancer Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, and we were blessed to spend this time together staying with our daughter, Rayna, son-in-law, Jason, and frequent visits with Robyn. This time was filled with precious moments with his three grandchildren, who brought him endless joy and light. He was grounded in Jewish traditions and community. His life was centered around family, learning and friendship. Although his illness progressed quickly, Howie’s spirit sustained him. He was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather; a proud uncle; a respected teacher; and a loyal friend. He believed deeply in showing up for others — listening first, connecting heart to heart, finding meaning through conversation, curiosity and laughter. Even in the hardest moments, he found ways to connect, to joke and to remind us of what matters most. Howard was born in Pittsburgh and grew up in Squirrel Hill. He went to Taylor Allderdice High School. He was predeceased by his mother, Ruth Girson, and his brother, Richard “Richie” Girson. He came from modest beginnings and navigated a challenging upbringing, yet through perseverance and grit, his love of learning led him to a master’s degree and a meaningful career in special education. Howie became a revered teacher, helping students who dropped out of school return to earn their GEDs. He believed in meeting people through their humanity first — building trust, honoring their dignity and then inspiring learning. His love of education and teaching others was a defining thread throughout his life. We married by eloping after canceling a large wedding we had carefully planned just two weeks before. Pretense never suited Howie. What mattered was meaning, intimacy and authenticity, and so we chose a quiet ceremony to share our vows, beginning a life that was anything but ordinary, yet was extraordinary. Life with Howie was a true adventure. I married for love, and together we worked hard to create the life we envisioned. We embarked on a business venture side-by-side, owning, operating and growing a Tupperware distributorship that became recognized among the top franchises in North America. At its heart, the business was about people — building teams, developing leaders and helping others perform at their best. Our energy, commitment and belief in people carried us far. Eventually, Howie returned to complete his 30-year teaching career. As we raised our daughters, we approached parenthood as full partners. He was so proud of the strong women and mothers our daughters grew to be. Jason, our son-in-law, became his favorite sports-watching companion and spirited commentator. And the joy he found playing with his three grandchildren made him the undeniable rock star of our family. Howie was a natural satirist; humor and laughter were woven into our daily lives. He taught me to cherish the things that have nothing to do with money — nature, art, animals, good food and simple pleasures. A master cook, he turned everyday meals into five-star experiences, bringing love and creativity to the table. Our lives were enriched by family vacations, time with joint vacations with my brother and his family, and meaningful travel around the world. Howie left an indelible imprint on every-one he touched. He was known for his uncommon kindness, playfulness and selfless devotion to those he loved. The world is dimmer without him. Funeral service and shiva information at epsteinmemorialchapel.com/obituaries/howard-girson and online guest book. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Howard’s memory to organizations supporting pancreatic and liver cancer research, or a tree may be planted in his honor. PJC