Billy Joe Howell

Mr. Billy Joe Howell, 81, of Hermondale, Mo., passed from this life Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012, at his home.

Born in Oak Ridge, Mo., to Allie Houston and Culpernia Ann Little Howell, he was a retired farmer, who served his country proudly in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. B.J. was a longtime member of the Vestry at St. Stephens Episcopal Church, where he was a Senior and Junior Warden. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 24, the Elk's Club and he held a special place in his heart for dogs. B.J. was a former insurance salesman and adjuster for Farmer's Insurance Company and was also the former owner of Temples Corner Grocery. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather and will be missed by many.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Jane Edington Howell; 11 brothers and sisters and one grandson, Joshua Howell.

He is survived by his children, Connie Erwin and husband, Joe, and Ronald Howell, both of Steele, and John Howell and wife Linda, of Paducah, Ky.;

His granddaughter raised in his home, Lauren Childers of Jonesboro; and

Six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

The burial office for Mr. Howell will be at St. Stephens Episcopal Church (1115 Willow St., Blytheville) at 10:30 a.m. Saturday with the Rev. Father Scott Trotter officiating. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Friday at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Humane Society. An online register may be signed at cobbfuneralhome.com