James Howell

Jim graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science degree and as a member of the International Business Honor Society of Beta Gamma Sigman. From there he went on to a career of more than 30 years with Western Electric, AT&T, American Bell International in Tehran, Iran and Lucent Technologies.

Jim was a devoted husband, loyal friend, and a man of strong convictions and wide-ranging interests. He enjoyed spending his time reading and staying informed on current events and politics, a subject about which he was always passionate and engaged.

In earlier times, Jim was an avid golfer, cherishing the time spent on the course with his sons and devoted friends, Leland Blalock and Bo Mosley. He was a dedicated fan of Florida State Football and Kentucky Wildcats Basketball and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his beloved teams. Jim was also a proud Honorary Colonel in the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels.

Above all, Jim treasured his family and the life he shared with his wife, Sharon. His wisdom, wit, and steadfast presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, his son, James S. Howell, III and his sisters Lavonne Lane, Bobbie Dyal, Peggy Durden and Ruby Mulkin.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of over 50 years, Sharon Dubois Howell. He is also survived by his sons, Glen, Derek (Laura), Kye (Tina) and his daughter, Kristen Redding (Keith); daughter-in-law, Kaye Howell; 7 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

A celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at 2:00 pm, H.M. Patterson & Son Canton HIll Chapel with Richard "Ricky" Solomon Smith officiating.

Jim will be remembered for his love of learning, his enthusiasm for spirited discussion, his dedication to the people he cared about, and the many lives he touched throughout his 91 years.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to the staff of Springhill PCH and Affinis Hospice for thier dedication and support during Jim's final days.

HM Patterson and Son Canton Hill Chapel is in charge of arrangements.