Reverend Howard L. Matlock, Sr, was born February 9, 1949 to the late Fred Matlock and Naomi Mackey Matlock in Whitehouse, Texas.

Howard attended Stanton Grade School and graduated Whitehouse High School in 1967.He was given nick name the "King" by his fellow classmates.

He served his country in the United States Navy in 1968 as a season recruit; transferred to basic firefighter school and was honorably discharged as a fireman apprentice in 1970.

Howard grew up as a member of Mt. Elem Baptist Church. He later joined Sandflat Baptist Church where he answered his calling to enter the ministry. He later rejoined Mt. Elem and served as a proud associate pastor.

He worked and retired from Tyler Pipe Industries and very often did many freelance jobs.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Betty E. Record Matlock, daughter, Patricia Matlock and Carolyn Whitaker.

He leaves to cherish his memory, daughter Uwanna L. Matlock; sons Howard L. Matlock, Jr. (Tina) and Chilton E. Matlock (Marshelus).