Howard Ray Jennings

Howard Ray Jennings AKA Jose Jimenez, Chief Astronaut, went to be with the Lord on May 4, 2026 at the age of 88, after a short battle with glioblastoma, surrounded by his family.

He was born on January 17, 1938 in Bloomfield, Mo, son of Charles and Freda Jennings. He graduated from Bloomfield High School in 1955 and married his high school sweetheart, Margaret Ann Pulley, on June 2, 1957. He joined the Army National Guard out of high school where he was a Marksman in rifle, pistol, and machine gun.

He was best known for his rich tenor voice and his deep love of gospel singing. Over the years, he shared his talent in many quartets, performed heartfelt solos, and lifted spirits through his involvement in church singing. Whether standing before a congregation or harmonizing along side friends, his music brought comfort, joy, and inspiration to all who heard him.

Our favorite quotes we will always remember hearing him say…”you live around here or did you ride a bicycle,” “frost my jaws,” “my name is Jose Jimenez, Chief Astronaut,” “the ole gray mare ain’t what she use to be,” “slap a nanny goat,” “makes me gargle peanut butter, chunky style.” You never knew what he would say, sing or if he would start talking in pig latin. He loved making people laugh.

He was proceeded in death by his wife of 64 years, Margaret Ann, mother and father, brother Willis, brother n laws Chuck, Terry, and Fred, sister n law Betty. He is survived by his sisters Shirley (Judd) Hutchison, Brenda (Steve) Torbet, brother Larry (Betty) Jennings, and sister n laws Joan Jennings, and Becky Pulley; a son Chris (Belinda) Jennings, a daughter Starr (Larry) Rasmussen; grandchildren Tyler (Jordan), Brayden (Libby), Kaylee, Tanner (Hayden), Kristie (Nick), Lindsey (Sam), Dylan(Torie), and Maddie; great grandchildren Aubrey, Rory, Presley, Olivia and lots of nieces and nephews.

There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date.

He loved the Lord, his family and friends dearly. He will truly missed by all.

“WAY TO GO YOU REDBIRDS!”