Howard Lathrop, age 87, a lifelong resident of Cross Keys, NJ, went home to be with the Lord on June 29, 2024.

Howard was a graduate of Glassboro High School, Class of 1955.  He served in the US Army from 1960 to 1962.  Howard worked as a grocery store produce manager for many years, before retiring from SuperFresh.  Upon retirement, Howard worked as a school bus driver for Winslow Twp. Schools, where he was loved by his fellow bus drivers and transportation department.

He was a lifelong member of Cross Keys United Methodist Church, where he served the Lord in many roles over the years.  Howard was one of those "go to" people who enjoyed "keeping busy."  He served for a time as the church sexton; was a long-standing member of the church Trustees, serving as the Trustees secretary and maintaining the church cemetery; served on the Administrative Council, as well as many other committees over the years.  He could always be found cleaning up or fixing something around the church as well as his friends and neighbors' homes.  Howard was a member of the Williamstown Lodge #166 Free and Accepted Masons and Williamstown Chapter #149 Order of the Eastern Star.  He served as a Worthy Patron several times for many Eastern Star chapters in South Jersey.

Howard loved to travel and camped all over the country with his family and friends.  He also enjoyed maintaining his house and flower gardens.

He was predeceased by his first wife of 60 years, Janice A. Lathrop (nee Hill), and his parents Howard Lathrop, Sr. and Alma Denelsbeck.

Beloved husband of Doris J. Firth (nee Biggs).  Devoted father of Steven Lathrop (Cheri) and Richard Lathrop (Lauren).  Loving grandfather of Benjamin Jennings Lathrop, Johnathan Lathrop and Thomas Lathrop.  Loving great-grandfather of Noah Lathrop.  Dear brother of Emma Lloyd (the late William).

Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation on Saturday, July 13th from 9:30 – 11:00 am at the Cross Keys United Methodist Church, 1644 N. Main Street, Williamstown, where a Masonic service will be held at 11:00 am followed by the church service.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Cross Keys United Methodist Church, 1644 N. Main Street, Williamstown, NJ 08094.

To sign the guestbook online, please visit www.farnellifuneralhome.com