In Memory - Howard R. Stump

It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of Howard R. Stump, of Smyrna, DE on September 21, 2021 at 61 years of age.

He is survived by his father, Howard B. Stump; five siblings, James W. Mullaney (Rita), Timothy P. Mullaney, Sr. (Renie), Kathleen Mullaney (Tom Witkowski), William C. Mullaney and Kimberly Stump (Ken Hausman); 12 nieces and nephews, J. Michael Mullaney (Jennifer), Joseph Mullaney (Sanh), Lisa A. Mullaney, Lynn M. Burke (Matt), Shannon E. Coble (Chris), Timothy P. Mullaney, Jr. (Kristen), Brian Cote (Lis), Melissa Young, Scott Bundek (Cheryl), Mandy Bundek, Jacob Hausman and Katie Hausman; and 23 grandnieces and grandnephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Catherine M. Stump.

Howard had a variety of interests, and worked in many jobs over the course of his career. After graduating from Albright College with an English degree and a love of theater, he joined the Circle Repertory Company in Manhattan, working as Master Carpenter and Assistant Production Manager. While in New York, he used his tech skills as a Producer and AV programmer for many video and trade show presentations in the late 1980’s. In the 1990's, his interest in writing, photography, and going to horse shows with his family ignited a career change. He worked for The Morgan Connection publication as a writer and General Manager, covering horse shows across the nation. He also served as the publisher of The Morgan Horse, the official publication of the breed. Eventually he moved back to the family horse farm in Clayton to help with the family businesses. He continued writing as a blogger on Soundtrack to My Day, where he wrote personal reflections about music and championed musical artists that he loved. Later in his life, he assumed the role of caretaker of the family. He was the family communicator, planner of social events, family photographer and promoter of strong family ties. He was always available to support his circle of friends and family, and did so with integrity, honesty, humor and generosity.

A Celebration of Howard's life will take place at a later date.