William Ellis Howell III

A Celebration of a Life Well Lived

It is with profound sadness that we announce that William Ellis Howell III closed his big blue eyes for the last time on March 21, 2025, at 80 years old. Too soon... he had projects he wanted to finish. Bill leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and indelible memories that will forever remain in the hears of all his family and friends. He was the oldest child born on November 26, 1944 to William Ellis Howell Jr. and Elise Lee (Kirkhuff) Howell, in Glendale, California. Three years later his sister Carol was born and his brother Kirk rounded out the family in 1951. His parents built a house in Sunland, California. The lived there until 1960 when they moved to Northern California to get out of the smog.

His parents bought Scott's Corner, a neighborhood store south of Auburn. That is where he met Marilyn (Molly) Malloy.They were together for most of the rest of his life.

Bill's life was rich with experiences. He was not only an accomplished individual but also a man who found joy in the simplest pleasures, especially the outdoors and love of gardening. Bills passions reflected his zest for living. His laughter echoed in the hallways of family gatherings, and his quiet wisdom guided those who sought his advice. Bill was a devoted husband father, son and brother and friend, always prioritizing the happiness and well being of his loved ones.

Outside of work Bill's life was filled with interests and hobbies, whether it was repairing cars or projects around the house and yard, always teaching himself new skills. The family camped most weekends and holidays until the lase few years. He read everything from the encyclopedia to cereal boxes and Don Quixote. He built a regulation horseshoe pit for the local Veterans' Hall. He built unique sheds. He designed and built decks and patio covers that required no nails. He said just a few months ago, he wanted to be remembered as a woodworker. Bill embraced life with enthusiasm and hope.

Bill is survived by his wife of 59 years, Molly, his daughters, Kathleen Dawn (Mike) and Valerie Blythe (Steve), brother Kirk (Jackie), sisters-in-law Linda and Nancy, granddaughters of heart, Katherine and Crystal (Brandon) great-grandson Brom, cousins Gordon, Nelvia, Eric and Frances, nephew John, Nieces Megan, Kristi, Bethany, Rachel, Jill, Jody, and Joelle. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Jr, Elsie Lee, sister Carol Louise, cousin Leonard, brother-in-law Karry, Uncle Larry and Aunt Betty.

"Those we love don't go away; the walk beside us every day."