Howard J. Nugent

Howard J. Nugent, age 81, of Mechanicsburg, and formerly of The Bronx, New York, passed on Friday, June 19, 2026. Howard was born on Wednesday, February 7, 1945, in The Bronx to the late Howard Aloysius Nugent and Mary Ellen (Geraghty) Nugent.

After retiring from the New York City Housing Authority, Howard continued his career as a national elevator and escalator inspector. His strong work ethic and technical expertise led to his selection to assist with inspections during the construction of the Freedom Tower in New York City.

At home, Howard applied the same practical skill and mechanical ability to maintaining and improving his home. He also enjoyed gardening and spent many hours maintaining his yard with care and attention. 

Howard took great pride in his Irish heritage and maintained a strong interest in history throughout his life. He traveled extensively to deepen his understanding of the places and events that shaped the world. Among his most meaningful trips was the Band of Brothers tour across Europe, which reflected his longstanding respect for military history.

Howard’s survivors include his wife of 59 years, Jean Ellen (Ryan) Nugent; his 2 Daughters: Karen (Nugent) Ryan of Bedford Hills, New York and Anne Couldridge and husband, Mark of Carlisle; and his five grandchildren: Mathew Couldridge, Andrew Couldridge and wife, Brittainy, Connor Couldridge, Liam Ryan, and Owen Ryan.

All are welcome to join Howard’s family at his viewing on Monday, June 29, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Buhrig Funeral & Cremation, 37 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 with a Mass of Christian Burial beginning at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 400 Simpson Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; with Reverend John Bateman celebrating. Howard’s family invites everyone to join them for a time of food and fellowship at Buhrig’s Gathering Place (next to the funeral home) immediately following the Mass. Burial will be at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, where military honors will be presented .

Contributions in celebration of Howard’s life can be made to CPARC The Arc of Cumberland and Perry Counties, 71 Ashland Avenue, Carlisle, PA 17013 or to Sarah Todd Memorial Home, 1000 West South Street, Carlisle, PA 17055.

Howard’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. Read Howard’s full obituary, view his memorial video and photograph, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle, and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.