ADEL, Ga. (WALB) - Corporal Howard “Howie” Lorette, a beloved Cook County Sheriff’s Deputy, husband, father, and friend unexpectedly passed away on August 16, 2025.

Howie left behind his wife, Vickie, and their two children, Ethan and Ava.

Vickie Lorette, Howie’s wife said, “It just happened…found him on the floor. He’d mowed our yards, edged around the property, swept our porches and all (“she even saw him on the camera”). I got him on camera doing everything he looked fine, no stress, and comes in and collapses just out the blue.”

​He dedicated his life to protecting and serving his community, not only as a deputy but also as a school resource officer, where he made a lasting impact on countless students and families. He was a man who gave selflessly to others, always with kindness, humor, and pride in wearing the badge, according to family and friends.

WALB asked Howie’s daughter, Ava, who is preparing for her first year of college what she will miss most about her dad.

She said with tears, “How proud he was of me…”

“He was very proud of his babies, she’s running cross country in college and I think she thought about quitting but he was so proud she’s running for her daddy,” her mom said.

Howie’s passing has taken a toll not just emotionally, but financially. Even with life insurance, expenses have made it clear Howie was the family’s sole breadwinner and protector. 

Howie’s mother Beverly Lorette said, “His name to us was Howie that’s what everybody called him…He did a lot stuff, he was a good son.”

Vickie said, “He took over like head of the whole family...he was our glue.”

As Howie would give back to anyone in his community, that same community is rallying together to support the Lorette family. Recently, they created a GoFundMe to ease the financial burden as they navigate life without him.

Vickie, his wife said, “It’s been beautiful. The community…the community has gotten us as far as we’ve got but all the love has been just amazing. He would be honored to see how everyone has honored him and his family.” 

The Lorette family is thankful for all the support and prayers they’ve received from the community. If you would like to support the Lorette family financially click here.

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