Billy Gene Howell, Sr

Billy Gene Howell, Sr., 88, of New Martinsville, WV left this world on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 while at Select Specialty Hospital.

Billy was born June 1, 1937, in Maude, Wetzel County, WV son of the late Winfred J. and Hazel F. (Mason) Howell.

He was a skilled brick and block layer whose craftsmanship can be seen throughout the community. He built the foundations of many local buildings and laid the block for the bandstand and concession stand at the high school football field. His work quite literally helped build the town he loved.

He was a skilled draftsman and enjoyed sketching blueprints for future homes and projects–he always added the beautiful details of landscaping in his plans. A talented artist at heart, he brought creativity and precision to everything he touched. He also cherished time spent deer hunting and trout fishing with family and friends, always appreciating the quiet beauty of nature.

He loved classic cars and took pride in restoring and working on them, finding joy in bringing their timeless beauty back to life. He also had a special place in his heart for his dogs, who were always by his side and brought him great comfort and companionship.

His legacy lives on in the strong walls he built, the detailed drawings he created, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and hard work.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Billy Howell, Jr. and brother, T. Ardell Howell.

Surviving is his wife of sixty-five years, Carolyn (Wright) Howell; two children, Kristine (Jeff) Gieseke and John Howell both of New Martinsville, WV; six grandchildren, Liza (Oscar Pegorraro) Snyder, Levi Howell, Isaac Howell, Jennifer Gieseke, Sam (Erin) Gieseke and Wyatt Howell; great grandchildren, Case Gieseke and Balen Gieseke; daughter-in-law, Kim Howell; siblings, Gary Howell and Benny (Aletha) Howell both of New Martinsville, WV and Patsy (David) Bee of Mineral Wells, WV and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Friends received 5-8 p.m., Monday, October 20, 2025 at the Jarvis Williams Funeral Home, 1224 S Bridge St., New Martinsville where services will be held 11 a.m., Tuesday, October 21, 2025. Burial to follow in Paden Memorial Gardens in Paden City, WV.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wetzel County Animal Shelter, 399 Mollohan Dr., New Martinsville, WV 26155.