Memphis, TN - Howard William Marker, MD, 84, passed away peacefully after a short illness on January 19. He was born in Dallas, TX, and raised by his aunt and uncle in Tyler, TX, after his parents' death. Dr. Marker obtained an associate's degree from Tyler Community College and earned a bachelor's degree from The University of Texas at Austin. He graduated from The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston and was a board-certified rheumatologist and one of the founding members of Memphis Medical Specialists, where he practiced internal medicine and rheumatology for many years before his retirement. Dr, Marker served active duty in the Air Force and later in the Naval Reserve. He was predeceased by his parents, Menah and Abraham Bernard, and his sister, Frances Wolchansky. Dr. Marker is survived by his children, Michael Marker of St. Louis, Jeffrey Marker and his wife Hallie and their son Adin of Memphis, Andy Marker and his wife Karen and their children Matthew and Scott of Austin, TX, Cynthia Marker and her husband Paul Adee and son Jack of Chicago; and his sister Merri Lynn Coleman of Salem, Oregon, along with many nieces and nephews. A proud graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, Dr. Marker loved his Longhorns and all things Texas. He was a longtime member of the Memphis medical community, a supporter of Memphis State (later The University of Memphis) athletics and had many good friends. He loved animals, cigars and collecting odds and ends. He was quick with a laugh and had a gentle spirit. He maintained a positive attitude through his struggles with dementia and illness and always put others before himself. A private memorial service will be held in Waco, TX, where Dr. Marker wished to be buried next to his parents. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dr. Marker's memory to the American Diabetes Association , the Humane Society or a charity of the donor's choice. Canale Funeral Directors (Published in The Commercial Appeal, Memphis, TN on Jan. 21, 2017)