Howard Edward Nivens

October 1, 1948 - February 4, 2020
Howard Edward Nivens

Memorial Gifts & Donations




Howard E. Nivens, age 71, passed away peacefully on Tuesday February 4, 2020 in his home in Carolina Beach, North Carolina. He was born October 1, 1948 in Charlotte, NC to Robert P. and Minnie H. Nivens. He married Ann H. Nivens and has three wonderful children, Scott, Mark, and Brooke Nivens, and stepson Pressley Ridgill, Jr.

Howard was known for his unconditional love and devotion towards his family and those around him. His deep kindness was something that extended through every stage of his life. He was a Vietnam Veteran who served honorably in the Air Force and a Police Officer who served proudly on the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department. During his time in the police force, he received numerous awards, including Police Community Relations Award for Outstanding Community Service and the Lifetime Commitment Award for Right Moves for Youth. He not only served his country, but was a strong contributor and positive influence to his community as a founding member of the Right Moves for Youth Program, a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, a coach for multiple youth teams, and he always lent a helping hand to anyone in need.

Howard was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Minnie Nivens and his siblings Jerry, David, and Donald Nivens. He is survived by his wife Ann H. Nivens, his children Scott, Mark (Gigi), and Brooke Nivens, stepson Pressley A. Ridgill, Jr. (Melissa), grandchildren Trey, McKenna, Mary, Jackson, Lincoln, and siblings Evelyn Craig and Joe Nivens.

Howard was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who will be forever cherished, greatly missed, and deeply loved. His kind-hearted nature will flow through us and exist within us all.

Family, friends, and others whose lives were touched by Howard are invited to a remembrance at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church Community Life Center in Carolina Beach, NC on Friday, February 7 from noon-2:00pm, and a memorial service at Williamson’s Chapel United Methodist Church in Mooresville, NC on Saturday, February 8 at 2:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations be made in Howard’s honor to the American Heart Association Sumter Clarendon Heart Walk or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the ” Post a Condolence” tab below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st St. Wilmington NC 28403
910.791.9099


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  • February 05, 2020
    Katherine Jackson McClam and Family says:
    Ann and family, We are so sorry about Howard's death. He was such a nice man. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Aunt Katherine and family

  • February 07, 2020
    Mary Kelly says:
    Dr. Ann Nivens & Family, Sending heartfelt prayers and condolences to you at this difficult time. As you begin to celebrate a life well lived, know that you angel watching from above. Praying God will give you strength and comfort during these difficult days ahead.

  • February 07, 2020
    John Nivens says:
    Thank you Uncle Howard for always being there for everyone when they needed someone the most. I will never forget spending time with you, Scott and Mark in the home built by you, my Dad, and my uncles in Huntersville. Rest in peace. John Nivens

  • February 06, 2020
    Maria Sherrill Martini says:
    Scott so sorry for your loss. Prayers and condolences to you and your family

  • February 06, 2020
    Georgia Styles says:
    My heart goes out to Ann and the rest of the family.Howard was a fun person to be around the times I was able to be around him ,the different events that Highland Creek had at their home at Lake Norman.Will be missed.