Yesterday, Alton Howard went to be with the Lord.  He was known for his hymnal, "Songs of Faith and Praise" widely used in countless churches.  Having founded Howard Publishing and being involved in various ministries (especially at the White's Ferry Road Church in West Monroe, Louisiana), he was known as a champion of singing and worship.

I enjoyed getting to stay in his home and one memory comes to mind . . . It was during one of the editions of his hymnal when they were seeking song submissions.  Being a songwriter and having written a number of songs, I thought I'd submit several of my songs.  I also included ONE of my Dad's songs, "While The Ages Roll On."  I received the answer from Howard Publishing that they picked one song to be in the hymnal of all the songs I submitted - my Dad's song!  Alton always had fun giving me a hard time, saying "If Keith would write a good song, maybe we'd include it too."   

In some ways, Alton reminded me of my Dad.  Now, they are both singing harmony in the heavenly choir.