Vansant, VA- Joseph Douglas Howell, age 72 of Leemaster, passed away Sunday, July 23, 2017 at his home following an extended illness. Born March 7, 1945 in East Liverpool,Ohio. He was a son of the late Elizabeth and Robert Sommers. He was a heavy equipment operator and truck driver. He enjoyed fishing and sitting on the front porch watching and feeding his birds.
Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Van Dory Howell, two daughters, Teresa Howell of Greenbrier and Tina Howell and her fiancé Allen Clark of Leemaster, a son, Craig Howell of Greenbrier, a granddaughter, Nikki Looney and fiancé Jason Stuart of Akron, OH, a grandson, Drake Howell of Sandlick, brothers, Chuck Carter of CA, Rick (Lisa) Sommers, Frank Sommers and Jeff (Wendy) Sommers all of OH, two sisters, Susan (Mark) Stamm and Dixie (Bernie) Herr both of OH and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, July 27, 2017 at Haysi Funeral Home with Gospel Grass Trio. Burial will follow in GW Deel Cemetery, Greenbrier Road. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. The family will receive friends after 12:00 noon on Thursday at the funeral home prior to funeral service. Online condolences may be sent to www.haysifuneral.com
Haysi Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.