Howard Rouse, III, 56, of Stoneville, NC,, died Wednesday, March 3, 2021. A Public viewing will be held Friday, March 12, 2021 from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Perry Spencer Funeral Home, Madison, NC. Graveside service will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 13, 2021 at the Moyer Cemetery, Stoneville, NC.

Howard “HIII” Rouse III, the son of Howard Rouse Jr. and Maxine Moyer Rouse was born in Reidsville, North Carolina on March 25, 1964. He was granted eternal rest on March 25, 2021 at Hospice of Rockingham in Wentworth, North Carolina. Howard was preceded in death by his parents. Howard was a lifelong native of Rockingham County. He received his early education in the Rockingham County School System. As a teacher’s son, Howard exemplified his best behavior knowing that his parents were always only a classroom away. As a matter of fact, his father chose to retire the same year, Howard graduated from Madison Mayodan High School. During high school, Howard established himself as a true confidant and sportsman. He is also remembered as one of the student school bus drivers. After Howard matriculated in 1982, he continued his education at Watterson’s Diesel Institute in Charlotte. At Watterson’s, Howard earned a degree in Diesel Engine and Truck Technology. Missing the serene landscape and rolling hills of Stoneville, Howard chose to return to his beloved hometown to join his namesake. Upon returning to Stoneville, Howard immediately immersed his efforts in cultivating the family farm. He enjoyed moments assisting his mother with developing the infrastructure of Rouses Group Home. Howard deeply cherished his family and friends without hesitation to sacrifice. Howard accepted Christ at an early age and became a member of First Baptist Church of Reidsville. He was a loyal member until his health failed. Although Howard was quiet about his faith, his love of God was apparent in his daily life. He personified what it meant to be resilient. His deeds and services for others spoke volumes. God’s grace, patience, and gentleness guided him through his life’s journey. As Howard matured, everyone who knew him referenced him as a “gentle giant.” He was hardworking, passionate and devoted to any project he undertook. Howard was forthright, he said what he meant and undoubtedly meant what he said. He had and carried the burdens that most of us could not bear. Though the burdens Howard carried were at times, seemingly more than his share; he carried them with character, strength and perseverance. Most remarkably, he did so with fortitude, without complaint and incredibly he never gave up.

Howard is survived by his sons, Darren Moore; Stoneville, NC and DeAndre Rouse; Collinsville, Va sister, Debra Rouse; Summerfield, NC and a god sister, Beatrice Laney; Durham, NC. Four aunts, Charlene Rouse; Columbia, SC; Anna Price; Stoneville NC, Idella Kellam; Reidsville, NC and Willie Mae Lawson; Reidsville, NC. He leaves a host of cousins, extended family members and friends.