Jim Howell was my gym teacher at Taft from 1966-69 and softball team coach in 1969. His guidance left such a deep impression on me that he became my inspiration to major in physical education/secondary education at Howard University. When I would come home on leave from the military 1978-1984, he would invite me to come speak with the students at Taft. When I left the military and came home to DC, he was instrumental in me becoming a basketball referee locally and a mentor in the "stripes". He was an absolute gentleman all the time and spoke whenever we would run into each other in the area. He was a great friend and colleague. He will surely be missed.

Best principal ever, i will always remember him as firm but kind hearted person in school and out. He will be missed,  he was my principal in 1990 

Sincerely bunmi

Taft Jr High School Alumni bowling with Mr. Howell

My deepest condolence to you ref may you rest easy and everlasting peace.

I extend condolences to Beannie’s family.  I was a schoolmate at American University and shared many happy and fun times with him and our schoolmates.  Beannie and I became administrators in the. DC public schools and shared thoughts of the tasks before us.
In the last few years we gathered for lunch with others who were our university friends. ( Barbara named us the Black Eagles.)  Those were cherished meetings.    He will truly be missed.

Earlene M. Jenkins 
American  University
Class of 1962

My sincere condolences and thoughts to the Howell family.
Jim will definitely be missed. I also attended Archbishop John Carroll High School from 1953 to 1957 with Jim. We played on the basketball team together. 
Jim was an outstanding athlete and a GREAT Basketball player and a very fast runner on the Track Team.
What I remember most about Jim was his modesty and his being a "GENUINE" model human being!
Until we meet again.....

Beannie and I were at Carroll high school from 1953 to 1957 when we were part of the third graduating class. We had many classes together and I recall that during our senior year we would discuss plans for what we do on the weekends. We had basketball games to participate in, him as an all-star and me as one of the managers. We would also talk about what house parties we might go to. Our wives became friends and I would often run into him at National airport as he was traveling referring at college basketball games and me traveling for the NEA. Jim was a good friend and a great human being. I will miss him.

My deepest condolences to the Howell family. Rest on Mr Howell, one of the BEST principals ever! So many amazing memories. You and your amazing smile and spirit will truly be missed but NEVER forgotten. The staff and students of Taft will forever love you!!!! 🕊️🌹

He was the Greatest Principal Ever. Friendly, caring and always made you feel seen and safe. My sincere condolences to the family. I pray for strength at this difficult time.❤️🙏🏽❤️😔

My Condolences and love to the Howell family and friends.  Mr. Howell was a wonderful man and my Jr high school principal he represented Taft Trojans well.  He made sure that we were loved and cared for.  He  made learning fun.  He served the students and staff always with dignity and pride.  I will cherish the memories of him and remember how valuable he was to my education and others.  

Tyreese Bailey 
Class of 1987

My sincere condolences to the Howell family.  Mr. Howell was my favorite Principal!  He was genuine and really cared for his students.  He could also run students and reprimand you with explanation and a smile.

My principal my principal he stayed on me I thought oh Mr.Howell was mean but he wasn't he only wanted the best for me he wanted to see me succeed and not mess up I love you Mr.Howell  and may you rest in peace🙏🏾🕊🌹

I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. He was my godfather and here’s a photo from 2024 when he attended my mom’s birthday party.

Mr Howell .. I’d like to pass my Condolences to you and your Family. I was always thankful that I met you in Junior High…  You were firm but fair..  I always respected you..  May you rest in peace.. God’s Love to you… 🤎

Wardell Howell Jr

Wow, Mr. Howard, where do I start? You were probably the best principal I've ever had very understanding very present. You are a gentle of a man. Thanks for all the memories. Thanks for the best three years of my life. Rest in peace. Love you.

Condolences to the Howell family. Mr. Howell was a great gym teacher and principal that cared for all of us.  I will always remember his smile.

Condolences to the family. He was such a great and impactful teacher and cared about his students.  

Molette Green

My sincere condolences to the Howell family and Mr Howell was good man no doubt you will be miss 🎈🙏

Mr Howell Thank You For Being A Great Role Model, Advisor , Leader & Outstanding Principal. You Made My 3 Years At Taft Great Even When You Had To Suspend Me For Fighting. Blessing To Your Family. You Will Be Truly Missed ❤️. ~ Myesha Carter-Seabron

OBITUARY

James Monroe Howell Jr.

April 11, 1939 – April 1, 2026

Hines-Rinaldi Funeral Home

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