Howard Funeral Service of Leachville and Manila is the oldest business on Buffalo Island. In 1911 E. M. Howard opened a general store in Leachville. The custom of the day was for the general store to build caskets and provide funeral services in addition to their other merchandise. By 1917 Mr. Howard became a "full time undertaker" and established Howard Funeral Service. The business has remained in the family for four generations and nearly 100 years of continuous service. Buddy Howard became the second generation to operate the funeral home following the death of his father in 1934. Buddy died in 1965, and Nola, his wife, operated the business until 1970 when their daughter and son-in-law, Jo and Earl Smith became the third generation owners. Greg Smith, Jo and Earl's son, joined the family business in 1983 making the fourth generation. Greg has followed the families long-standing tradition of service and commitment to the Buffalo Island Community. From the T-Model to the internet age it has been our honor to serve you.