Full letter from Ethel Lanier - President & CEO of Howard L. Lanier III Community Development Corporation and Mother of Howard L Lanier III

 Howard L. Lanier, III, born April 1, 1984, was the youngest of my four children. Howard grew up with a strong family foundation; my husband and I instilled in him the importance of having faith and being accountable. From an early age, Howard’s personality was magnetic. His smile and personable demeanor captivated those he came in contact with. Howard’s love for sports began at a very young age; basketball soon became his passion. While Howard had a full schedule due to athletic ambitions, he understood the importance of performing well within the classroom as well. His greatest achievement went beyond his personal academic successes but it was when he was able to mentor the youth in his community and educate them on the importance of doing well in school. My son’s untimely passing on March 30,2016 was a profound loss to our family, friends, his colleagues and community. Even in his absence, Howard’s accomplishments continue to impact many today. We miss him dearly, but we have found peace in creating this organization to honor him and to continue the work that he loved.