On December 21, 2021 our father, Donald Howell, also known as "Fred" and "Freddie" by family and

friends took his last breath with us to be with Mom, JoAnn, his mother, Pauline, father, Edison and two

of three sisters, Ramona and Betty Lou. Those left behind, until we meet again include his daughter and

son-in-law, Donna and John Justice, son and daughter-in-law, Keith and Paula Howell and sister, Janice

Baucom, 4 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren and many friends.

Born October 1934 to a farming family in Pelham, GA. Was in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1956. During

his time in the Navy, he met our mother, JoAnn McBee. They were married in 1954, had a daughter in

1956 and a son 1958 and were married for 66 years. After his time in the service, he attended

education for Business Management.

In his lifetime Dad built furniture at Galloways, was a retail manager at Eckerd Drugs, an independent

truck driver. At a whim, he decided to stop working for someone else and start his own leather goods

business making and repairing all types of leather goods, mostly for horses. From there he not only had

his leather repair business in Lutz, FL, but also expanded into having a feed store and cobbler business in

Dover, FL. After settling down in Zephyrhills he took up woodworking, making furniture and what-nots

for family and friends.

His hobbies included playing a guitar, training and showing his horse, playing golf with his son, Keith and

woodworking.

He was known by many to be an amazing man. Very personable. Took pride in his handy work.

With all this said, it was obvious to everyone that knew him, Dad was solely dedicated to taking care of

Mom until she took her last breath. After her passing August 2020, he rested and waited for his time.

Rest in peace now, Dad. You have earned it.

Viewing will take place on Thursday, December 30, 2021 from 11:30am to 12:30pm at Hodges Funeral Home, Zephyrhills, Florida. Burial with Military Honors will take place at 1:30pm at Florida National Cemetery.

Visitation

Hodges Family Funeral Home, Zephyrhills

Thursday, December 30, 2021 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM 36327 SR 54 Zephyrhills, FL 33541 Directions Military Honors

Florida National Cemetery

Thursday, December 30, 2021 1:30 PM - 2:00 PM 6502 SW 102nd Avenue Bushnell, Florida 33513 Directions