Kevyn Major Howard, ‘Full Metal Jacket’ star who ‘gave so much to the world’, dies at 69

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA: Kevyn Major Howard, known for his iconic role as Rafterman in 'Full Metal Jacket', has died at the age of 69. His death on Friday, February 14, has left fans and fellow cast members in mourning. Howard died peacefully at a Las Vegas hospital, surrounded by his family. 

Reports indicate that the actor, also a talented headshot photographer, had been battling respiratory issues in the weeks leading up to his death, though the official cause is yet to be determined. Howard is survived by his wife, Tiffanie, stepdaughter, Kayla, sister, Kim, and brother, Kelsey.

Howard's death came just days after the death of Patrick Mahomes' grandfather, Randy Martin, and 'Bling Empire: New York' star Lynn Ban.

Kevyn Major Howard's family shares heartfelt statement

In a heartfelt statement shared with Fox News Digital, Kevyn Major Howard's family paid tribute to the late actor, honoring both his legacy and dedication to causes beyond his film career.

The statement began, "Kevyn was a loving family man who left a legacy that extends beyond his film career. His efforts to advocate for remembering our fallen heroes and his ongoing support dedicated to our military, law enforcement, and those affected by the 9/11 attacks will live on through his foundation, Fueled By The Fallen."

It went on to say, "His family wishes to continue his mission of remembering the seven forgotten words: ‘Yes Sir, No Sir, Please & Thank You’ for our aspiring youth. May we never forget and always remain in remembrance."

The statement concluded with a touching farewell: "He passed peacefully, holding his wife's hand on the international day of love. Miss you. Love you. Bye."

Kevyn Major Howard's co-star Matthew Modine pays touching tribute to late actor

Matthew Modine, Kevyn Major Howard's 'Full Metal Jacket' co-star, paid a heartfelt tribute to the late actor.

In a post shared on X on February 16, Modine began, "Kevyn Major Howard gave and gave and gave so much to the world and especially the men and women of our armed forces. He became famous for his role of 'Rafterman' in Stanley Kubrick’s FULL METAL JACKET."

He continued, "His portrayal gave him a unique entree into the world of the US Marine Corps. This led him on a decades-long journey to be in service of our nation’s bravest. Thank you for your dedication to others and to America. May all the gods bless you Kevyn. Rest in peace. #SemperFidelis."

Modine also shared a description of an image he had taken with Howard, recalling, "The 'Lusthog Squad' - Kevyn Major Howard (lower right), Sal Lopez (lower left), Gary Landon Mills (upper left), Adam Baldwin (upper middle), and myself (upper right). We're being lit by fire in this photo. We went to this source of warmth because the winter of 1985 was particularly freezing."

Who was Kevyn Major Howard?

Kevyn Major Howard, born on January 27, 1956, in Montreal, Canada, moved to Los Angeles to pursue his acting career, quickly gaining recognition for his roles in several well-known TV series. He appeared in classics such as 'MacGyver', 'Magnum PI', and 'Miami Vice'.

On the big screen, Howard shared the screen with Hollywood legends in films like 'Sudden Impact' in 1983 alongside Clint Eastwood, 'Alien Nation' in 1988 with James Caan, and 'Death Wish II' in 1982 starring Charles Bronson.

He also made notable appearances in popular TV shows like 'Cagney & Lacey', 'The A-Team', and 'The Outsiders'. Howard’s final credited role was in the 1999 series 'Crusade'.

As reported by Fox News, Howard’s iconic portrayal of Rafterman in 'Full Metal Jacket' featured him as a combat photographer alongside Matthew Modine’s character, Joker, documenting the war.

Beyond acting, Howard was also dedicated to philanthropy. His nonprofit foundation, Fueled By The Fallen', focuses on supporting veterans, first responders, and their families through various initiatives. The foundation’s motto, "Teach A Child To Thank A Hero Today," reflects its mission to honor and remember those who have sacrificed their lives in service.

'Full Metal Jacket' star Kevyn Major Howard's fans pay heartfelt tributes

Kevyn Major Howard’s death has sparked an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from fans and 'Full Metal Jacket' admirers across the internet.

One fan shared, "Loved your work Kevyn, AKA Rafterman, and you PVT Joker. Semper FI MAC, the Marines and Gunny Ermey await you. 🫡"

Another praised, "Great man who supported a lot of great causes for our military 🇺🇸❤️. Rest in peace."

A fan tweeted, "Great performance. He had a great small role in Sudden Impact with Eastwood! He will be missed."

Another reflected, "RIP. He was in so many iconic 80’s films. It’s hard to recommend Death Wish 2 because it’s so over the top and disturbing but he was great in it as a thug who gets his comeuppance."

An individual expressed, "RIP to your castmate Rafterman. A real 'heartbreaker and a life taker.'"

A friend of Howard’s added, "He was also one the best Headshot photographers in LA. That is how I met him, and we became friends. You will be missed dearly, Kevin."

Another user reminisced, "Also remember him tangling with Clint in Sudden Impact. RIP."

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