The Howards have spent decades quietly working to make Fairview a better place–not for recognition, but out of a deep sense of love for their hometown and its people. Together, they have raised their three children–Rachael (Spencer), Brandon, and Hannah (Caleb)–in a home centered on service, faith, and appreciation for the blessings of small-town life.

“We feel that this area has brought us closer to God,” Jessica said, reflecting on their years in Fairview.

A legacy of service

Jessica’s roots in Fairview run deep. A descendant of early settlers, she grew up along the town’s creeks and ditches, picking buttercups and spearmint, and delighting in the sound of the train whistle echoing through town. She has always had a heart for service–beginning as a child, mowing and watering lawns for the city and volunteering for cemetery cleanup and summer library programs.

As an adult, Jessica has continued to serve her community in meaningful ways. She has been involved in numerous Eagle Scout projects that benefited the local museums, sports park, and San Pitch River, and has spent countless hours volunteering at Fairview Elementary School. Her passion for education led her to earn a degree in Elementary Education from Southern Utah University, and after teaching early grades at Mt. Pleasant Elementary, she has returned to the classroom as a paraprofessional in Fairview.

Hilmer’s journey to Fairview began in Spanish Fork, where he grew up exploring the canal, fishing in the river bottoms, and helping his grandparents on the farm. His childhood was filled with sports, family, and a love for the outdoors. After graduating from Spanish Fork High School, he attended Snow College, then paused his education to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Toronto, Canada. He later completed both a bachelor’s and master’s degree at Southern Utah University.

For the past 31 years, Hilmer has taught elementary school–26 of those years in Fairview. Generations of students remember Mr. Howard not only as a teacher, but as a mentor and friend. He continues to cheer on his former students and is proud to watch them grow into successful adults.

In addition to teaching, Hilmer has volunteered extensively in the community. He served as an auditor for the Miss Fairview Pageant, coached many youth ball teams, and participated in community improvement projects that make Fairview a more welcoming and vibrant place to live.

Living the Pioneer Spirit

Jessica’s fond memories of helping her grandparents with farm chores and sneaking peeks at baby lambs in the yard are mirrored in the Howard family’s current lifestyle. The couple shares a love for gardening, farming, hiking, fishing, hunting, camping, and reading, but their favorite pastime remains spending time with family and friends.

Hilmer and Jessica’s commitment to family, faith, and community is evident in every aspect of their lives. Their example of kindness, hard work, and selfless service is a true reflection of the pioneer legacy that Fairview celebrates each July.

“We are so grateful for the great blessing of having wonderful parents, the best children, and a beautiful community like Fairview to live our lives to the fullest,” they said.

As Grand Marshals for the 2025 Pioneer Day Celebration, the Howards will represent not just a family, but an entire way of life–one built on gratitude, service, and the determination to leave things better than they found them.

Their hope for the future is simple but powerful: “That all of us will work hard to continue the legacy our Pioneer forefathers left us here in Fairview.”

Please join Fairview City in honoring Hilmer and Jessica Howard, a couple who truly exemplify the heart and heritage of our community.