William Alan Howard

On September 16, 2026, William “Bill” Alan Howard passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with pancreatic and lung cancer. A private family service will be held at a later date. 

Born on November 21, 1956, in Dallas, Texas, Bill’s lifelong passion for comic books began in childhood, through reading, collecting, and even creating his own comic books, complete with original artwork. He graduated from Dallas Skyline High School and went on to earn a master’s degree in music from the University of North Texas, performing with the Commercial Music Lab Band, the Zebras, under the direction of Professor Dan Hearle.

Bill made his home in Waco and McGregor, Texas with his husband, David Bass, with whom he shared 42 devoted years. In 1982, he joined McLennan Community College as a keyboard specialist in commercial music. Over the next 41 years, he taught piano, sight-singing, music notation, and more, impacting thousands of students through his exceptional musicianship, mentorship, and deep love of teaching. Through his teaching and mentorship, his influence extended far beyond the classroom, benefiting our entire community through his knowledge, talent, and remarkable mastery of the piano. Bill had a great love for teaching and performing, which made his career a natural fit. His work with the MCC Faculty Jazz Ensemble brought him immense joy and forged decades of lasting friendships. 

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary Howard, along with his extended family. He is survived by his husband David Bass; his brother Dr Glen Howard, and his wife Nancy, and their children Dr. Charles Howard of College Station, Dr. Katherine Buntz of Yukon, Oklahoma, and NP Sarah Howard of Plano; and his sister Dr. Mary Howard, and her children, Aidan and Aurora of Phoenix, Arizona. 

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Talukdar, his medical oncologist, and the emergency department team at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Hillcrest, especially nurses Macy and Cindy, and AccentCare of Waco for their compassionate care and support. 

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions to the McLennan Community College Music Department in Bill’s name, or to Pet Circle Regional Animal Center www.petcirclewaco.org , an organization especially meaningful to Bill for its dedication to animal rescue and welfare.