Harold Vincent Howell, 76, of Mt. Sterling, died Friday, April 17, 2026.
Born June 26, 1949, in Middletown, Ohio, he was the son of the late Robert and Unadell Howell. He grew up in Middletown, Ohio, and moved to Kentucky in 1967 to attend Eastern Kentucky University. In 1969, he was drafted into the United States Army. He built a successful career in sales and business management, retiring from Equipment Sales and Rentals and Montgomery Tractor Sales, where he was well-known not only for his work but also for the friendships he built over the years. A man of strong faith, he was a devoted member of Big Woods Community Church. He faithfully served on the church board and found great joy in helping distribute food to the community each week. His faith guided his life and was evident in the way he cared for others. He loved spending time with his family, traveling, hunting, and beekeeping. He could often be found “loafing around” Montgomery Tractor, enjoying good conversation and catching up on the day’s happenings—a place where his presence will be deeply missed.
Survivors include his loving wife, Diane Campbell Howell; son, Ethan Campbell Howell; cherished grandchildren, Emma Howell, Morgan Howell, Hayden Howell, Spencer Howell and Katie Howell; special loved ones, Jenny Howell and Sara Welsh; aunt, Jo Ann Howell; cousins, Jimmy (Diana) Howell, Kay (Chuck) Daugherty and Billy Paul Murray; many other cousins; and his Grassy Lick Road neighbors.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his son, Stuart V. Howell.
Service will be conducted at noon, Friday, April 24, at Taul Funeral Home. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Machpelah Cemetery.
He will be remembered for his strong spirit, steady presence, sense of humor and the deep love he had for his family and community. His legacy of faith, kindness and service will live on in all who knew him.
