Obituary of James Rudolph Howell

James Rudolph Howell was born in Camden, Texas on December 18, 1944. He resided for many years in Chester, Warren and Beaumont before moving to Vidor 8 years ago. He died peacefully in his home in Vidor, Texas on March 3, 2014 after a brief illness. He served his country honorably in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was awarded: The National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Sharp Shooter Rifle, and Vietnam Service Medal with two campaign medals. He was employed as a mechanic until his retirement at Sun Oil Company, Nederland Texas. He was a Ham Radio operator with call sign of KF5DRR. During his C.B. radio years his handle name was Smokestack. He was a devout Christian and eager witness for his Lord & Savior Jesus Christ. He was survived by his wife of 48 years Connie Howell; his daughters Zina Woodward, and Crystal Free; son (in-law) Jimmy Free Jr.; Granddaughters Belinda Sills, Tressie Jenkins, Caytlin and Ashlin Free; along with four great-grandchildren; brother David Howell Sr., sisters Bobbie Kromeich and Vicki Frankens; also, sister-in-law Janet Selman and brother-in-laws, John, Jerry, and Danny Morelock. He was preceded in death by three sons: Darrell, Kevin and Baby Boy Howell, parents J.L. and Naomi Howell, Grandmother Ruth Parks and Grandfather William J. Howell. Services will be Thursday, March 6, 2014 at 2 pm at Riley Funeral Home Chapel with military graveside service to follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery in Chester, TX. Visitation will be Wednesday, March 5, 2014 from 6-8 pm at the funeral home.