BENTON — Palestine “Pal” G. Howard, 95, of Benton, Ky., passed away at 2:05 p.m. Wednesday, February 20, 2013, at Baptist Health Paducah.

Judge Pal Howard, was born on August 25, 1917, in Pineville, Kentucky, to John and Jane Green Howard. Pal volunteered during World War II, and joined the United States Army. He became a member of the Army Air Corps 34th Bomb Group, and was honorably discharged with the rank of captain. Pal went on to Eastern Kentucky University where he earned his undergraduate degree in business. He went on to receive his law degree from the University of Louisville School of Law.

Pal was an avid golfer and fisherman, and was one of the founding members of the Benton Country Club. During his career he served as city attorney for both Benton and Calvert City, as well as Marshall County Judge, Marshall County Attorney and District Judge for Marshall County. He was a longtime member of the Benton Lions Club and First Missionary Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Virginia Smith Howard of Benton, Ky.; two sons, Ben Howard and his wife Sheila of Calvert City, Ky., and John Howard and his wife Michele of Paducah, Ky.; two sisters, Kathleen White of Panama City, Fla., and Delores Goodin of Knoxville, Tenn.; four grandchildren, Sam Howard, Tom Howard, Matt Howard and Erica Howard; and one great-grandchild, Jade Howard.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two sisters, Faye Mullins and Pauline Huff.

In accordance with Pal and Virginia’s wishes there will be no visitation or services. Interment will take place at a later date in the Calvert City Cemetery. Filbeck-Cann & King Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements and condolences may be left on-line at their website www.filbeckcannking.com

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Missionary Baptist Church Building Fund, 100 West 13th Street, Benton, Kentucky 42025 or the Marshall County Exceptional Center, P.O. Box 423, Benton, Kentucky 42025.