Donald "Don" Ray Howell

Donald “Don” Ray Howell, age 89, Erwin, passed away on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, at Lakebridge Nursing Home. He was a lifelong resident of Unicoi County and son of the late James and Bessie Howell.

Don was a United States Navy Veteran, having served his country honorably during the Korean War aboard the USS Baltimore. He was awarded a National Defense Service Medal and Navy Occupation Service Medal.  Don was a self-employed truck driver for many years, and he was a Teamster. Don attended Erwin Bible Holiness Church.

He enjoyed going fishing and camping with his family. Don was a UCHS Blue Devil sports fan.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his wife, Gracie Price Howell on October 25, 1997; two infant brothers: Obed Dubard Higgins and Dennis Higgins; brother, Raymond Higgins; sister, Mary Evelyn Powers.

Don leaves behind to cherish his memory, three sons: Tony Howell, of Colonial Heights, Larry Howell (Janey), of Unicoi and Greg Howell of Erwin; six grandchildren: Mason Howell (Lindsay), Cory Howell (Hannah), Dillon Howell, Alexis Howell (Chris Whitt), Cheyenne Howell and Michael Howell; two great grandsons: Jaxson Whitt and Gentry Howell; soon-to-arrive great granddaughter, Piper Howell; one brother, Lincoln Higgins; several nieces and nephews also survive.

Don’s family will receive friends from 2:00-3:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 26, 2023, at the funeral home chapel. Dr. Chris Bogart will officiate the 3:00 p.m. funeral service. Interment will follow in the Unaka Springs Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Mason Howell, Cory Howell, Michael Howell, Greg Howell, Charles Powers, Rick Powers and George Shelton.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Howell family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com 

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Howell family. (423) 743-1380.

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