He was a decorated World War II veteran, who was able to recall in great detail, even at age 92, the experiences of his military career. He took great joy and pride in his service to our country and in telling his children and grandchildren about his military background. He was a respected automobile mechanic and a former race car driver, who was fondly known in the Mobile area and around the southeastern United States as “Wild Bill.” He was for many years the owner and operator of Howell Brother’s Garage in Saraland. Everyone that knew him, thought of him as an exceptionally gifted automobile mechanic, who loved spending his time diagnosing and repairing even the most complicated mechanical problems.
Mr. Howell was preceded in death by his wife of 16 years, Helen Franz Howell. Following the death of his first wife, he married Annie (Ann) Ruth Garner Howell, who passed away in 2011. He and Ann enjoyed 47 years of marriage, and numerous travel adventures across the continental United States and Alaska. Their lives were greatly enriched by the company of their countless “RV” friends with whom they shared a love for the natural beauty of our country. Mr. Howell was also preceded in death by his son, Alan Jerome Howell and grandson, Nathan Mark Howell. Mr. Howell is survived by his three sons and one daughter, Billy Howell, Kenny (Lorrie Wallace) Howell, Mark (Kim Huff) Howell, Geraldine Howell Hammons. He is also survived by his four step-sons, Donald (Deborah Stewart) Nelson, Patrick (Deborah Robinson) Nelson, Michael (Gloria Curtis) Nelson, Dr. Glenn (Dottie Gray) Nelson, 23 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and his brother, Reverend David Howell. Mr. Howell enjoyed the friendship of many in his community and especially those of Creola First Baptist Church and the senior men’s class.
Visitation will be at Radney Funeral Home in Saraland on Friday, August 17, 2018 from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. Funeral services will be held at Creola First Baptist Church, Saturday, August 18, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 10:00 A.M. prior to service. Interment will be in Creola Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Creola First Baptist Church Kitchen Renovation Fund, 9728 Old Hwy 43, Creola, Alabama 36525. Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-saraland.com
