Clifton R. Howell's Obituary
Clifton R. Howell, age 91, of Sparta, IL, passed away on Tuesday, August 15, 2023 at 5:30 a.m. in Coulterville Rehabilitation & Health Care Center, Coulterville, IL.
Clifton was born on May 26, 1932 in Carbondale, IL, a son to Clifford D. Howell and Evelyn R. Mowery. He married Anita Marie Basler on May 20, 1955 at U.S. Naval Base in Coronado, California. He entered into the United States Navy on January 8, 1952 and switched to the United States Air Force and later retired on February 1, 1972 as a Master Sargent. Clifton served during the Korean and Vietnam Conflicts. He opened and managed four H&R Block Tax offices for several years due to his background in accounting. Clifton worked as an assistant finance officer for 24 years at Gilster-Mary Lee Corporation. He was a long time member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Sparta, IL. He was a member at the Coulterville V.F.W. Post #6865, American Legion of Sparta Post 396, Knights of Columbus 3rd Degree Post 6577 and 4th Degree Post 1287. Clifton was an avid golfer and had a passion for clay target shooting with many friends, as well as a love for spending time with his family.
Survivors include his wife of 68 years; two sons, David A. (Cyndi) Howell of Coulterville, IL and Michael R. (Nancy) Howell of Sparta, IL; one daughter, Kimberly A. Howell of Sparta, IL; five grandchildren, Angela (Jason) Wright of Coulterville, IL, Heather (Randy) Steele of Coulterville, IL, Adam (Amy) Howell of Coulterville, IL, Emily (Josh) Johnson of Aviston, IL, and Molly (Tyler) Thompson of Freeburg, IL; nine great-grandchildren, Analiese Howell, Ace Howell, Kynlee Wright, Jaycee Wright, Jaxson Steele, Raylend Steele, Sammy Johnson, Lucas Johnson, and Zoey Thompson; one brother, Richard D. Howell of Cobden, IL; special friends Mary Lou Schmulbach and Travis Aaron; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and step-father, Francis H. Holland.
A private graveside service will be conducted at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Pyatt Funeral Home, Coulterville, IL has been entrusted with the arrangements.
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