Stella Jean Howell

Stella Jean Howell, 86, of Bidwell, Ohio, passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Abbyshire Place.

Born on April 27, 1939, in Gallia County, Ohio, Stella was the daughter of the late Ardell F. and Mary Lucille Brewer Smith. She married John Howell, who preceded her in death in 2019.

Stella moved to Florida in the late 1970s, where she worked for a military contracting company. She later enjoyed working alongside her husband, Johnny, for more than twenty years building commercial buildings. Stella was a devoted NASCAR fan, especially of Bill Elliott and Dale Earnhardt, and she loved traveling.

She is survived by her children, Nick (Donna) Smith of Gallipolis, Ohio, and Debra Bailey Crenshaw of Gallipolis; grandchildren, Dell (Rachel) Smith of Jackson, Ohio, Olivia (Jimmie) Skidmore of Patriot, Ohio, Melissa (Don) Mays of Bidwell, Tristan (Rob) Denman of Orange Beach, Alabama, Ashlee Crenshaw of Atlanta, Georgia, and Crissy (Mason) Smith-Clark of Columbia, South Carolina; seven great-grandchildren, Drew, Madison, Jaden, Kasen, Kennedy, Grayson, and Landon; four great-great-grandchildren; brothers, Roger (Sandy) Smith of Gallipolis and David (Sandi) Smith of Phoenix, Arizona; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents and husband, Stella was preceded in death by her son, Ricky Carl Smith, and brother, Maxie Carroll Smith.

A funeral service for Stella will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Willis Funeral Home with James Patrick officiating. Friends may call prior to the service from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Park, 1515 NE Third Street, Ocala, Florida 34470.