James "Buddy" Boyd Howell

James Boyd "Buddy" Howell passed away in the comfort of his home, surrounded by loved ones, on June 4, 2024, in Inez, KY, at the age of 76.

Buddy is survived by his wife, Zola Howell of Inez, KY; his two sons, Chris (Christy) Howell of Dandridge, TN, Kirby (Missy) Howell of Inez, KY; and three granddaughters, Kayla (Matt) Meade of Georgetown, KY, Courtney Howell of Louisa, KY, Ashley Howell of Inez, KY, and one great granddaughter, Molly Kate Meade of Georgetown, KY. He is also survived by one brother, Floyd Howell, and five sisters, Judy Jude, Vistie Fletcher, Rebecca Howell, Faye Jude, and Connie Howell. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jonah and Nellie (Fluty) Howell, also his brothers, Jonah Howell Jr (Sug), Jimmy Howell, Lloyd Howell, and his sisters, Doris Jean Bowen, and Louise Fletcher. 

Buddy was born on September 8, 1947, in Martin County, KY, to Jonah and Nellie Howell. He married Zola on September 30,1967. They shared nearly 57 years of marriage and built a legacy of love and faith for their family. His sons remember him as a kind and loving father who always supported their goals and worked hard to help them achieve those aspirations. His granddaughters remember him as the most loving and supportive man they have ever known. They couldn't have dreamed up a better Popaw if they tried. Buddy was passionate about Jesus and always wanted to be in church if the doors were open. He was once asked why He loved God so much, and He replied without hesitation, “because He saved my soul!” He was a retired heavy machine operator who received significant honors and recognition for his skill and performance. If there was one thing he loved other than his precious family, it was probably a Caterpillar bulldozer.  Buddy was a gentle man who didn’t know a stranger. To know him was to love him. His family finds great comfort in knowing that he is finally home with Jesus, whom he has spent the last 30 years of his life serving. They know life won’t be the same without him, but their lives are forever impacted for the good because of him.

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." - Revelation 21:4

The funeral is scheduled for Friday, June 7, at 1 PM at Crum Funeral Home. Visiting hours will be 5-9 PM at Crum Funeral Home on Thursday, June 6. Pastor Warnie Pinson will officiate the ceremony. Burial will follow at the Riverview Memorial Garden. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Buddy’s life. Arrangements are under the direction of Crum Funeral Home of Inez, KY.  

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