The Northeast Louisiana Music Trail will unveil its 21st marker, honoring Alton Howard of West Monroe, Friday, December 13.
Born in Rocky Branch, Louisiana, Howard served in World War II before making a home for his family in West Monroe. Though a successful businessman, his passion for music followed him throughout his life. Howard produced and managed the Steffins Sisters, whose gospel, bluegrass, and country recordings included sessions with Nashville's top musicians. He also produced a number of records with Ray Walker, a member of the Jordanaires and backup singer for Elvis Presley.
Howard founded Howard Publishing, where he recorded more than 50 popular hymns and compiled multiple hymnals, selling over 3 million copies worldwide.
He served as an elder at White's Ferry Road Church, where he led music for many years and founded multiple ministries, including Camp Ch-Yo-CA. An author of several best-selling books, Howard's passion for music and writing continues as his family carries on the legacy of Howard Publishing.
The marker will be unveiled Friday, December 13, at 3:30 p.m. at WFR Church in West Monroe.
