Wilma Howell, 84, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on May 17, 1942, Wilma lived a Christian life centered on faith, family, and love. She will be remembered for her kind heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Wilma attended Hubbertville High School, where she distinguished herself through both her character and academic achievement. In 1960, she was crowned homecoming queen during her senior year and graduated as valedictorian of her class.

Wilma found her greatest joy in being a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She possessed a special gift for making people feel welcomed and loved, and her home was always a place of warmth and comfort.

She also had a lifelong love for growing plants. If there was an available patch of ground—or almost anything that could hold a little dirt—Wilma would find a way to plant something in it. Her ability to nurture things and help them grow reflected the same patient care she gave so freely to the people in her life.

Wilma is lovingly survived by her three children, Mark (Marlene) Howell, Karen (Tim) White, and Jody (Wanda) Howell; six grandchildren, Daniel (Martha) Howell, Rachel (Brandon) Woolard, Breanna McGuire, Maegan (Travis) Whitson, Tanner Howell, and Taylor Howell; and 11 great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy.

She is also survived by her three sisters, Nancy Barnes, Evelyn Estes, and Linda Sanderson, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will cherish her memory.

Wilma was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James “Bud” Howell; her cherished granddaughter, Kayla White; her parents, John and Evacille Herren; and her brothers, Larry Herren and Sydney Herren.

Wilma’s life was a beautiful example of Christian faith, unconditional love, quiet strength, and selfless generosity. Though her family grieves her passing, they find comfort in the countless memories she created, the lives she helped nurture, and the enduring love she leaves behind. Like the many things she lovingly planted and tended, her influence will continue to grow and bear fruit through the generations of the family she loved so deeply.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Marion Regional Nursing Home in Hamilton, Alabama, for the exceptional care, kindness, and affection they showed Wilma. They not only cared for her needs but also came to love her, just as she dearly loved them. The family is also deeply grateful for the many prayers, expressions of love, and acts of support shown during this difficult time.

Funeral services for Mrs. Howell will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. from the bowmen Funeral Home Chapel with burial to follow in the Hillcrest church of Christ Cemetery. The visitation will be held on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. service time at the funeral home.

Bowen Funeral Home of Winfield, AL serving the Howell family.