Melvin L. Howell
February 3, 1937 – May 17, 2022
Melvin L. Howell was born February 3, 1937, to James and Thelma Howell in Goochland County, VA. He attended Goochland County Public Schools and graduated valedictorian from Central High School in 1953. After graduation, Melvin enlisted in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1957. At an early age, he was baptized at First Baptist Church of Manakin, Va. He was very active in church ministries. He served as a trustee until his death on Tuesday, May 17, 2022.
Melvin loved playing golf and watching Tiger Woods on TV. He would travel to North Carolina at tournament time to see Tiger play. He also loved football and going to pro-football games. His favorite team was the Baltimore Ravens. For his 85th birthday party, given by his grandchildren, “The Ravens” was the theme for the party. He loved to take cruises to the Bahamas, Alaska, and the Caribbean. His favorite vacation was to Negril, Jamaica. He said, “he could make this his home.” Melvin loved his family, especially his daughters. He was a colorful person and loved to entertain his grandchildren and friends. His favorite quote was “Be Real.”
Melvin was self-employed most of his adult life. He operated Howell Refuse Service for many years and later he was a painting and carpentry contractor.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Thelma Howell, brother, William Howell, sisters, Carlease Howell and Irene Woodson, one granddaughter, Monica Snead.
Melvin is survived by his wife, Joyce Howell; daughters Felecia Howell and Cassandra Snead; sister Theresa Howell; five grandchildren Larry Snead (Iyesha), Cheree Snead, Matthew Snead, Jervon Johnson and Monae Johnson (Clarence); thirteen great-grandchildren Howard Harris, Emanuel Snead, Larry Snead III, Latrell Snead, LaShay Snead, Deonte Snead, Imani Gross, Isaiah Williams, Jada Harris, Christian Johnson, Zion Johnson and Jourden Johnson; one daughter-in-law Rowena Johnson; one sister-in-law Elizabeth Howell; one brother-in-law James Woodson; devoted friends Jennifer Faison, Gregory Roland and Thomas Smith; his neighbors, Greg and Gayle Harris, Keith Anderson, and Wanda Taylor. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, and friends, especially his church family.
He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
A service will be held at noon on Monday, May 23 at First Baptist Church of Manakin, 214 River Road West, Manakin Sabot, Virginia 23103. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be in Virginia Veterans Cemetery t Amelia at a later date.
Melvin, rest in peace, Larry and I are going to miss you, especially that realistic way of life you had.. you always spoke the truth whether you wanted to hear it or not..gone but not forgotten.
Love you. Peace Be With You.
Joyce
RIP you will be missed by so many.
I greatly valued my long friendship with Melvin. May he rest in peace.
Cassandra, my deepest condolences to you and your family, for the lost of your father. Will you in prayer at this time of sorrow.
I really appreciate the times that we got a chance to talk about life, family, marriage and other things. You were one of the first people that set the example for me of being an entrepreneur and controlling your own destiny. You were always someone I could look up to and be proud. of as a black man. The distinguished gentleman “Melvin Howell” RIP you will be missed. Kenny, Yanic and Darius
Mrs. Joycy, Cassandra, and Felecia, I wish you and your family strength in this difficult time. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
To youJ oyce, your grandchildren and Weanie I want to extend my deepest condolences to all. I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that others care especially at this difficult time. I am praying for all. May God’s comfort and peace be with you.