Obituaries

William D. Howell, 97, of Martinsville, passed away on December 6, 2024 at SOVA Memorial Hospital in Martinsville. He was born on October 7, 1927 in Patrick County, VA to the late Emmitt O. and Nora Knowles Howell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Betsy. He was also preceded by seven sisters, Annie Helms, Virginia H. Inman, Margie Weeks, Lillian Cockram, Elva Harris, Myrtle Gregory, and Alpha Campenella. He was also preceded by two brothers, Glenn Howell and Roy E. Howell. Bill retired from working for more than 38 years at W.M. Bassett Furniture Company. He loved nature, fishing, hunting, and watching things grow. He loved to “pick a tune” on his guitar and banjo.

He is survived by his daughter, Becky Sheppard; son-in-law, Eddie Sheppard; granddaughter, Elizabeth Motley; grandson-in-law, James Motley; great grandson, Luke Motley; many nieces and nephews, as well as many good neighbors.