Howard Lewis Hurst, 86, of Palatka, passed from this life on Tuesday, December 27, 2016 at Haven Hospice Roberts Care Center following an extended illness. Howard was born in Maclenny, Florida and resided in Putnam County since 1940 coming from Maclenny. He was a Veteran of the United States Air Force. After honorably serving his country, he became the owner of Merrill and Hurst Feed and Seed later merging with Security Feed and Seed eventually selling to Con-Agra. Howard had also been a Mason and Shriner. He was preceded in death by his wives, Jeannette Hurst and Dorothy Causey, a step-son, James Bartlett, 2 brothers, Donald Hurst and Orville Hurst and a sister, Mickey Godbee. Howard is survived by a daughter Kelly Hurst, a step-son, Gary Wayne Bartlett, a brother Fred Hurst and a sister, Beulah Mae Cannon. Howard is also survived by 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Thursday, December 29, 2016 at Peniel Cemetery with Brother Fred Hurst officiating. No calling hours are scheduled. Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at www.JohnsonOverturffunerals.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.