Howard Pearson McMinn

Howard Pearson McMinn “Paw Mac”

Howard Pearson McMinn, 84, passed away on July 15, 2026 at The Four Seasons Elizabeth House after a short illness with his family by his side.

Howard was born November 4, 1941 in Fletcher to Roy O’Neal McMinn and Bessie Coggins McMinn. In 1960.

He graduated from TC Roberson High School. Howard enlisted with the US Navy until being honorably discharged in late 1960. He worked delivering oil to his faithful customers until he retire. He also worked at Hot Dog World in Hendersonville as the dining room attendant until retiring for a second time. He was loved and known as “Paw Mac” by everyone who knew him.

 He married Elsie Geraldine Thompson Brackett on March 10, 1972, they were each other’s life companions and best friends. Together they had a blended family of two daughters and a son from previous marriages and then 1 son together.  Howard was active in his church community and enjoyed fishing and taking care of his four four-legged dogs for whom he called his “doggie children” along with spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, and his many friends.

Howard was preceded in death by his father, Roy O’Neal McMinn and mother, Bessie Coggins McMinn along with multiple brothers and sisters.

Howard is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Elsie Geraldine; his two daughters, Tinker Hope Burbage of Tennessee, Sandra McMinn Gunnells of Monks Corner SC; two sons, Billy B. Brackett (Margie) of Mills River, and Bryan O’Neal McMinn (Monica) of Hendersonville; one sister, Betty-Jo Higgins of Old Fort; nine grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and many, many friends in the community.