William Howell Obituary

Howell, William Jackson "Jack" who was preceded in death by his loving wife of fifty-eight years, Jessie Taylor "Tay" Maxson Howell, passed away on September 15, 2025. Born on April 24, 1940 in Blakely, GA to the late William J. Howell and Mamie Sara Sapp. Jack lost his father as a toddler and his mother as a teenager, so he was particularly close to his maternal grandparents, S.G. and Lucy Hilton Maddox. Later Jack moved to Lexington to live with his beloved uncle and aunt, Bill and Lucy Young. It was at the University School where he was fortunate to meet Tay, his future wife. He then earned a BS degree from the University of Kentucky where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. After their marriage, Tay and Jack moved to his hometown in southwest Georgia before eventually returning to Lexington to raise their children.

After a career working in family agricultural and transportation businesses in Georgia and Kentucky, Jack retired to spend time traveling the world with Tay. They were in constant motion with favorite destinations including Bay View, MI and Alligator Point, FL. Jack had a great sense of humor and made many lifelong friends. He was a passionate aviator, cherishing time spent piloting his Piper Cherokee aircraft. Jack never saw a tool or gadget he could not use. His true calling was that of a devoted husband, father, grandfather and treasured friend. He is survived by two sons, Bill Howell (Sara) and Max Howell; two cherished grandchildren, Emily Howell and Will Howell; his half-brother Jim Hattaway (Teresa) and many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews. Jack's devoted friend, José Flores, was often by his side in his later years. In addition, he received exceptional attention from a team of caregivers who compassionately helped him around the clock. He was a member of the Idle Hour Country Club, the Keeneland Club, the Lexington Club, the Little Harbor Club and the Petoskey-Bay View Country Club.

Funeral Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 25 at Centenary Church. Donations in memory of Jack may be made to Lexington Hearing & Speech Center, 350 Henry Clay Blvd., Lexington, KY 40502 or to Little Traverse Conservancy, 3264 Powell Road, Harbor Springs, MI 49740. Funeral arrangements made by Kerr Brothers.