Kevyn Major Howard attends Cops4Causes inaugural "Heroes Helping Heroes" official 9/11 benefit at Pink Taco on September 11, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Tibrina Hobson/WireImage)
(EPICSTORIAN) — Kevyn Major Howard, the actor known for portraying Rafterman in Full Metal Jacket, has died at 69.
His family confirmed that he passed away Friday at a Las Vegas hospital following complications from respiratory issues.
A Career Built on Iconic Roles
Born on January 27, 1956, in Montreal, Canada, Howard pursued acting after moving to Los Angeles. His Hollywood journey began in the late 1970s, landing a breakthrough role in The Serial (1980).
He later appeared in Death Wish II (1982) and Sudden Impact (1983), making him one of the few actors to feature in both the Death Wish and Dirty Harry franchises.
Stanley Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket cemented his legacy. His performance as Rafterman, a Vietnam War correspondent, stood out in the 1987 war film, which remains one of the most influential movies in its genre.
Throughout his career, he worked alongside Hollywood legends, including Clint Eastwood, Charles Bronson, Frank Sinatra, and James Caan.
Beyond the Screen
Howard found success outside of acting through photography. His ability to capture emotion in headshots earned him the title “King of the Hollywood Headshot.” His work influenced the industry for more than three decades, helping countless actors establish their image.
His dedication extended beyond Hollywood. He founded Fueled by the Fallen, a nonprofit organization honoring fallen military personnel and 9/11 victims through tribute race cars. The initiative also provides scholarships to the children of fallen service members.
What Kevyn Major Howard Left Behind
Family members shared that Howard remained close to his Full Metal Jacket co-star Matthew Modine, with whom he spoke just before his passing.
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He is survived by his wife, Tiffanie, stepdaughter Kayla, sister Kim, and brother Kelsey.
