James Boyd ‘Buddy’ Howell
1947—2024

James Boyd “Buddy” Howell, 76, of Inez, passed away June 4, 2024, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by loved ones.

Born Sept. 8, 1947, in Martin County, he was the son of the late Jonah and Nellie Howell.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers Jonah Howell Jr. (Sug), Jimmy Howell, Lloyd Howell, and his sisters Doris Jean Bowen and Louise Fletcher.

Buddy married Zola on Sept. 30, 1967. They shared nearly 57 years of marriage and built a legacy of love and faith for the family. His sons remember him as a kind and loving father who always supported their goals and worked hard to help them achieve those aspirations. His granddaughters remember him as the most loving and supportive man they have ever known. They couldn’t have dreamed up a better Popaw if they tried.

Buddy was passionate about Jesus and always wanted to be in church if the doors were open. He was once asked why he loved God so much, and he replied without hesitation, “because He saved my soul!” He was a retired heavy machine operator who received significant honors and recognition for his skill and performance. If there was one thing he loved other than his precious family, it was probably a Caterpillar bulldozer.  Buddy was a gentle man who didn’t know a stranger. To know him was to love him. His family finds great comfort in knowing that he is finally home with Jesus, whom he has spent the last 30 years of his life serving. They know life won’t be the same without him, but their lives are forever impacted for the good because of him.

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” -Revelation 21:4

Survivors include Buddy’s wife, Zola Howell; his two sons, Chris (Christy) Howell of Dandridge, Tennessee, and Kirby (Missy) Howell of Inez; and three granddaughters, Kayla (Matt) Meade of Georgetown, Courtney Howell of Louisa and Ashley Howell of Inez; and one great-granddaughter, Molly Kate Meade of Georgetown. He is also survived by one brother, Floyd Howell, and five sisters, Judy Jude, Vistie Fletcher, Rebecca Howell, Faye Jude and Connie Howell.

The funeral was June 7, 2024, at Crum Funeral Home, Inez, with Pastor Warnie Pinson officiating. Burial was at the Riverview Memorial Garden. Arrangements are under the direction of Crum Funeral Home of Inez.