Archie Ray Howell

Archie Ray Howell, 87, Rockford, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed on at home to be with the Lord surrounded by his loving family on December 15, 2020. Ray was born September 3, 1933, in Scotland Neck, NC, the son of Robert Best and Mary Lorell (Carlisle) Howell. He married Betty Lois Munday on December 24, 1952. Ray enlisted in the Navy during the Korean War and served aboard the battleship USS Wisconsin. During this time Pastor Clinton White led him to the Lord Jesus Christ. At the time of his retirement in 1980, he held the rank for Command Master Chief Petty Officer. Ray received several commendations and awards for his dedication and leadership abilities as liaison between the enlisted and the officer personnel overseeing several bases on the east coast. After his military career, Ray’s second career was the CEO of the Military Benefit Insurance Company. Ray was active in his church and community. He had a cheerful attitude and great sense of humor. He loved spending time with family and golfing with friends.
He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Lois; his children, Sandy (Stew) of Stillman Valley, David of Fairfax, VA, and Daniel of Columbia, SC; his grandchildren, Heather (Joe), Jenny (Greg), Adam, Justin, Jerod, Kristen, Rachel, and Brett; 5 great-grandchildren; his brother, Clyde of Oregon State; and numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, 2 sisters, and 3 brothers. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the loving care and attention Ray received from the staff at the second floor health center at Fairhaven Christian Retirement Home. A special thank you to Unity Hospice for all of their support, care, and comfort.
Private graveside services will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory assisted the family. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.