Obituary of Douglas Eugene Howell

It is with heavy hearts, we announce that the Lord has called Douglas Howell of Huddleston home, peacefully last Friday night, May 8, 2021 he gave up the ghost amongst family in the comfort of his home. This wonder of a man will forever be etched on our hearts and be deeply missed. He lived his life his way to the ripe old age of 80 but even 80 just isn't long enough for us. We, however like to believe on the otherside he will be lovingly greeted by those already departed, his darling wife and high school sweetheart, Carol June Nuckolds Howell, his gone too soon granddaughter, Ashley Nicole Howell, his brother, Kenneth Howell, his sister, Jeannie Morgan, & his beloved parents, William Theron Howell and Ella Ferguson Howell. Douglas is survived by his loving daughter, Donna Marie & her devoted husband, Rusty Hawkins. They blessed Douglas with four grandchildren who lovingly knew him as their Papa. They are Bryan Eugene Howell & wife Deven Howell, Heather Ann Hawkins & fiance Corey Cassidy, Little Rusty Hawkins & fiance Hailey Little, and Tommy O. Hawkins. Douglas is also survived by his brothers, Gary Howell, Roger & wife, Phyllis Howell, and beloved sister, Eva Elmore. Douglas is also remembered by his dear son, Terry Howell & partner, Sherry Robertson as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and dearest friends. Douglas was no stranger to hard work and always provided for his family. He began as a Klopman mill worker, but with the new lake he found greater work as a well respected and skilled boat mechanic while he really shined as one of the founding members of Saunders Volunteer Fire Department. He was a true hero and we cannot be more grateful for the 25 years he served our humble community. He had several hobbies including his natural gift for hunting, he was an awarded Rifleman, a creative tinkerer, always tinkering on something like beating silver coins into treasured rings and other heirlooms, but his true passion and joy was reviving antique vehicles, like his prized Model A. He was a very talented multi- faceted man with an extreme lust for life and all the beauty of the world. Mostly, he will be remembered by his nearly unbelievable stories. Some might say they're tall-tales but he told them the same to everyone he met - his adventure on the mountain spotting Big Foot or seeing a Genuine UFO saucer with his wife & friends, and countless other funny ones he loved to make us laugh. He lived an extraordinary life and we will miss hearing him tell his amazing tales but we will never forget them, like him they are unforgettable. A graveside service will be held at 2 PM on Sunday, May 16, 2021 at Staunton Baptist Church Cemetery. There is no visitation. Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Huddleston.