Born in Louisiana and raised in Louisiana and Arkansas, Willie Earnest Howell of Walker Creek lived from November 28, 1921-August 18, 2014. He was 92 and celebrated marriage with Hazel Bolton Howell for 67 years. Earnest was retired from Olin Chemical Co. and UAMS.
He is survived by Hazel Howell of Walker Creek, two daughters—Dr. Diann Gathright and husband Al of Mount Ida and Mena, and Dr. Pamela Howell of Midland, TX; a son—Ronnie Howell and wife Kathy of Crossett. His grandchildren are Britt Gathright and wife Elizabeth of Tulsa, OK; Jonathan Gathright and wife Staci of Bentonville; Lance Howell and wife Tammy of Ward; Justin Howell of Lowell; and Elizabeth Howell of Midland, TX. Great grandchildren include Kathleen, Michael, and Mary Gathright of Tulsa; Jacob and Shelby Gathright of Bentonville; and Briann Howell of Ward. His brothers are Tom Howell of Bella Vista, AR; and Dorsey Howell of Denver, CO; and a sister Mildred Leggett of Lake Jackson, TX; two beloved sisters-in-law—Bobbie Allen and Emma Poe of Walker Creek, as well as a host of nieces and nephews.
He loved the outdoors, especially fishing at Lake Ouachita and Lake Erling, his family, his church, and visiting with friends in his kind, gentle way. He was on the originating board of the Walker Creek Water project. He is a World War II veteran and served as a Marine in the Pacific.
The service is Wednesday, August 20 at the Taylor United Methodist Church at 10:00 a.m. with the graveside service at Oak Grove Cemetery near Stamps. Bro. Spencer Plumley will be officiating and services are under the direction of Smith Funeral Homes of Stamps, AR. Visitation will be Tuesday, August 19 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Taylor United Methodist Church. Memorials may be made to Taylor Methodist Church (Springhill Hwy, Taylor, AR 71861) or Friends of Lake Ouachita (60 Evergreen Road, Mount Ida, AR 71957). Online registration is available at www.aosmithfuneralhome.com.