Obituary for Howard Gilmer Sadler
HOWARD GILMER SADLER
February 1, 1947 – May 5, 2023
“We are reminded how short life really is, and how we are just passing through. So, all the people you haven’t told you love lately, tell them, and live your days like you mean it.” Hal Sutton
Howard Sadler passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on May 5, 2023, at the homeplace on the family farm in Pulaski, Virginia, with his wife and his dog by his side. Howard’s family, friends and colleagues are deeply saddened by his sudden death.
Howard is survived by his loving and devoted wife of over 48 years, Su-Su O. Sadler; two daughters, Allison Sadler and Elizabeth Sadler; two granddaughters, Ariel and Caroline Wagner; a sister, Lila (“Sis”) Foster (John) of Marblehead, Massachusetts; a sister-in-law, Betty N. Sadler of Pulaski, Virginia; a brother-in-law, Clark Owen (Emilie); nephews John E. (“Jay”) Sadler, III (Suzan), Ned Foster (Angela), Sam Foster, and Richard Owen; and several great-nieces and nephews and cousins; as well as numerous friends and colleagues.
Howard was predeceased by his parents, John Edward Sadler, Sr. and Lila Gilmer Sadler; a brother, John E. Sadler, Jr.; and a niece, Emily Foster.
Howard had a huge heart and an ever-present smile. He was outgoing and never met a stranger. He was witty and clever, fearless and independent. He would have done anything for his family and friends. He would have acknowledged he was strong-willed and driven, yet so warm, engaging, charming, funny and fun-loving. Howard was aways on the go, but in his quieter moments, he loved reading, flyfishing in Montana, working on the homeplace and spending time with his wife, and their family and friends. He was generous with his time and friendship, and loved to talk on his phone.
A graduate of Hampden-Sydney College, Howard Served as a Captain in the United States Marine Corps, having actively served his country in Vietnam.
Howard’s career in various corporate leadership positions included work at Sadler Mills and as Plant Manager, Operations and Special Projects Director, and Vice President of Operations for global firms such as Warner-Lambert, Pfizer and Volvo with assignments in such diverse locations as Puerto Rico, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Virginia. In addition, Howard’s entrepreneurial spirit resulted in the launch of several software development and business consulting enterprises.
Upon returning to the New River Valley, Howard extended his career in residential, commercial and land sales as an associate broker with Coldwell Banker Townside in Blacksburg. Howard was first licensed in 1980 and was highly regarded by the real estate community and was honored by the New River Valley Association of REALTORS in 2020 with the Ethics in Action award. Not only was Howard recognized throughout his career with humanitarian awards and top producer success, he was singled out in 2022 for being such a strong foundation of support for all REALTORS that the Cornerstone Award was created to honor him.
Howard had a keen sense of responsibility to the Pulaski community including serving for many years on the Pulaski County Board of Zoning Appeals and frequently serving on Pulaski County Grand Juries, often as Foreman. He was a multi-generational member of the Pulaski Science Club and was a member of First United Methodist Church, Pulaski, and attended New Dublin Presbyterian Church.
Due to his unique family connections to the 1912 Hillsville Courthouse Tragedy, Howard conducted extensive research into the incident and presented his program, “The Last Witness – A Story of Friendship and Trust” throughout the region. His historical work contributed to the discovery of court documents central to the incident and their ultimate return to Carroll County on March 14, 2022, the 110th anniversary of the tragedy.
Funeral and Internment with full military honors will be at the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery on May 19, 2023, at 3:00 p.m., with the Reverend Tupper Garden officiating. Those wishing to attend the service need to be at the cemetery by 2:40 p.m. A reception will be held afterwards at New Dublin Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to New Dublin Presbyterian Church, 5331 New Dublin Church Road, Dublin, Virginia, 24084, in Howard’s memory.
Arrangements by Norris-Stevens Funeral Home, Pulaski, Virginia.
Susan (Howard’s second cousin)
May 9, 2023 @ 6:08 pm
Howard was such an inspiration to many. He is loved and will be sorely missed!
Sally Lou Hundley
May 9, 2023 @ 6:40 pm
Dear Su Su and family:
I am heartbroken to lose such a beautiful devoted dear Cousin as Howard. I remember when he was born and he was always very close to me!! I can’t believe he has gone but I’m sure God must have needed him for some higher purpose. I loved him dearly!!
Sincerely,
Sally Lou Gilmer Hundley
Georgecedmonds
May 9, 2023 @ 7:36 pm
Prayers for the family. I have known them for many years. Very sad to hear of Mr Sadler passing.
Charmayne Hall-Kemp
May 9, 2023 @ 9:23 pm
I’m so sorry to hear the sad news. Your in my thoughts and prayers. He will be greatly missed
Donna Travis
May 9, 2023 @ 10:02 pm
Howard was such a wonderful person. He truly was one of the most upstanding individuals I’ve ever met—-a true testament to what a Realtor should be! He was so well-respected among his peers in the New River Valley Association of Realtors. I will miss him.
Kathryn Oddo
May 10, 2023 @ 7:23 am
Su Su, I am so sad to read this news about the passing of Howard. My heart breaks for you and your family as I know how much he will be missed by you and so many of us. I will always reflect on our fun times and conversations about the various projects at the house with the last being the outdoor lights for you! Always enjoyed hearing about the family history, reflections about his past career and his enjoyment with his real estate career. Many thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Kathryn
Emily Gianfortoni
May 10, 2023 @ 12:36 pm
Su-Su, we are devastated and deeply saddened to learn of Howard’s passing. He has done so much for us as both realtor and friend. We could never have managed all the complexities without his knowledge and wise counsel. Our thoughts are with you after this incomparable loss.
Love from Joe and Emily
Jayne Gable
May 10, 2023 @ 10:25 am
We are shocked and saddened to learn of Howard’s death. He was such a loving, friendly, amazing man. Our hearts are hurting for you and our prayers surround you.
Jayne & Jim Gable
Susan G. Cook
May 14, 2023 @ 4:06 pm
Allison and family. I was shocked to hear of your Dad’s passing. I’m so sorry for all of you and I know he will be greatly missed. I hope you have been doing well, otherwise. I’ve missed seeing you. Susan
Charles Eversole
May 10, 2023 @ 11:00 am
Sorry for the family may he rest in peace .
John Edwards
May 10, 2023 @ 11:31 am
Howard was such a good person in every way. As his cousin, I know what a loving family man he was. He was great at keeping in touch and was so generous. When I came back from the Japan, he offered Cathye and me his former townhouse outside Camp Lejeune, N.C. until we obtained a cottage on base. He loved family history and was an expert on the 1912 Hillsville Courthouse Tragedy. His grandfather Howard Gilmer was a witness to the final words of the judge after the shooting. Last year, while visiting Carroll County for a trial, I learned Howard was well known the librarians at the old Courthouse. Cathye and I will deeply miss him. We send our deepest sympathies to Su Su and his family.
Wayne McGlothlin
May 10, 2023 @ 2:56 pm
Always knew Howard as a fine person. Will miss working with him. Best wishes to Su-Su.
Janet Vass Sarjeant
May 11, 2023 @ 9:30 am
I remember Howard and Su-Su from high school days in Pulaski, for they were kind to me and I looked up to them. Please know that I am thinking of the family at this sad time. Janet Vass Sarjeant
Robyn Dobyns
May 11, 2023 @ 10:51 pm
Howard made the most of every moment of his life with a passion, compassion, devotion and dedication. My father was very fortunate to have him as his friend and I knew him to be a kind gentleman who did not waver in his love and responsibility with family and friends. He will be greatly missed and remembered throughout the lives of those who loved him until they will also will be with him a little farther downstream. My prayers are for Su -Su , Allison, Elizabeth and all his friends and relatives for strength and healing.
All love, Robyn
NANCY AGEE
May 15, 2023 @ 10:59 pm
Dear SU-SU and family,
I know your hearts are broken and I understand for a loved one to be taken! Life is way too short ! Everyone that knew Howard had such great respect for him , his personality , his acumen, his dedication and always love for you and family! A True Gentlemen and a Friend!! Forever in my thoughts and Prayers to You and Yours!!
Nancy Agee
Chuck Forbes
May 16, 2023 @ 10:51 am
I had the privilege of working with Howard on many projects over the last ten years. He was a great guy who really cared about his family, community and friends. I will miss our conversations, projects and rides around the countryside looking at different properties he need surveying on. My prayers go out to Su-Su and the rest of his family.
Chuck Forbes
Bob whytal
May 17, 2023 @ 4:36 pm
Dear Su-Su and family:
I am very sorry for your loss. Please take care and best wishes for you. Good memories will always last.
Best:
Bob Whytal