It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Harold Eugene "Joe" Howell, who passed away on June 8, 2026, at the age of 83. Joe was born on October 30, 1942, in Alabama to Ruth and Arlie Howell. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Susan Howell; his son, Eric (Kelly) Howell; his daughter, Kimberly Vallejos; his grandchildren, Timothy (Natasha), Christina, and Katelyn; his great-grandchildren, Kylie and Killian; his siblings, Billy, Bobby, Hazel, and Max (Elaine); and many nieces, nephews, and other extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Joe was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, enlisting at the age of 17 and serving honorably in Security Police. In 1972, he moved his family to Alaska to help build the Trans- Alaska Pipeline. He enjoyed countless wonderful adventures flying, fishing, hunting, trapping, and camping, many of which he shared with his children and grandchildren. He especially enjoyed spending time at the local hockey rink watching his son and grandson play hockey. He could often be found joining in whatever adventures his granddaughters imagined, including sporting brightly colored nails and participating in makeovers—leaving them with memories they will cherish forever.

Joe devoted his life to the people he loved, his congregation at Mount Zion in Jasper, Georgia, and his lifelong support of the FSU Seminoles. He took great pride in being a grandfather and great-grandfather. He was there each day to pick up his grandchildren from the bus, attend school events and extracurricular activities, and love them unconditionally. Those who knew him will remember his humor, laughter, and infectious smile. His love and guidance touched many lives, and his memory will continue to live on through all who knew and loved him.

Joes' request was to be cremated, and he will be laid to rest with full military honors at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or the Wounded Warrior Project, charities that were important to Joe.

Joe was a man of strong and abiding faith who loved the Lord. His favorite Bible verse was Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." These words reflected the way he faced life's challenges—with courage, perseverance, and trust in God.

To the world, he was Joe; to us, he was Papa. He has left a hole in our hearts that can never be filled, and he will be deeply missed.