Funeral services were held Oct. 31 for Howard Books founder Alton H. Howard, who died Oct. 29 at age 81.

Howard, a northern Louisiana entrepreneur, founded Howard Books as a hymnal publisher in 1969. In 1990 he passed leadership of the company over to his son, John, the current publisher.

An avid writer and musician, Howard wrote a number of books and gospel songs that are still sung today and have been recorded by various music artists. The hymnals he compiled have sold more than 3 million copies. Howard also was instrumental in beginning “World Radio,” an international radio ministry that broadcasts the gospel of Jesus in native languages around the world.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jean Howard, son John Howard, daughters Mary Howard Owen and Janice Howard Owen, eight grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.