James Steven Howell, 73, of Young Harris, Ga., passed away Thursday, May 27, 2021, at his home after a brief illness with his wife by his side.
He was born in Cherokee County, but lived most of his life in Young Harris, Ga.
He graduated Murphy High School and attended Western Carolina University and Louisiana State University.
He was a car enthusiast all his life, and enjoyed cruising and spending time with friends in the hobby. He was a musician, singing in the choir and playing bass guitar in bands in his younger days. He could build or fix almost anything and enjoyed figuring out how things worked.
He was a member of First Baptist Church of Murphy. He was also a member of the Towns County Historical Society, Blairsville Cruisers, Greasepit Misfits and Friends of the Libraries.
He was the son of the late Richard A. and Opal Decker Howell.
He is survived by his wife, Donna Williams Howell of Young Harris, he was devoted to her and she was the love of his life and best friend for 43 years; daughter, Cammie Howell Brion of Ducktown, Tenn.; brother-in-law, David Williams of Marble; aunts, Katharyn Howell Monteith of Bryson City, and Virginia “Jo” Decker of Baton Rouge, La.; and many cousins and wonderful friends, including his best friend of almost 50 years, Steve Armstrong, who he loved like a brother.
A private service officiated by the Rev. Steve Armstrong will be held for the family and interment will follow at Sunset Cemetery.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
The family would like to gratefully acknowledge Dr. Tracy Edwards and the staff of Edwards Medical Practice and Chatuge Regional Hospital for their excellent care and kindness over many years.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society’s Mountain Shelter, P.O. Box 1252, Blairsville GA 30514, or to the charity of your choice.
Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhome.com.