 After Howerd's death, Heymer curated Howerd's collection of memorabilia until his own death in 2009.Having contracted a virus during a Christmas trip up the Amazon River in 1991, Howerd suffered respiratory problems at the beginning of April 1992 and was rushed to a clinic in London's Harley Street, but was discharged at Easter to enjoy his last few days at home.He collapsed and died of heart failure two weeks afterwards, on the morning of 19 April 1992, aged 75.