Gregory Todd Howell

View Funeral Webcast Gregory Todd Howell, aged 62, passed away September 8th, 2023. Anyone who knew him called him Todd, or most favorably, Gramps. Todd was born on March 1st of 1961 in Boynton Beach Florida to the late Jimmy Acton Howell and Merry Jon McMinn Howell. Todd spent much of his early life in the small community of Riverside, located in Columbia, TN. From a young age, Todd was independent and hard working. He spent many hours mowing lawns or other odd jobs around the neighborhood to afford his own dirt-bike or go-kart parts. Christmas was a special holiday around the Howell household. During the holiday season, he could often be found in the basement building "tears and taters" boxes to sell so he could buy Christmas gifts for his family. He was an intelligent and mischievous little boy. More than once, a story of him fishing for a shoe he dropped down the well has circulated amongst family. He spent many weekends camping with his father, which led to him earning the merit of Eagle Scout - one of his proudest accomplishments. His work ethic and determination continued to follow him throughout his life. Todd was a 1979 graduate of Central High School where he excelled in Auto Mechanics and Industrial Arts. He spent much of his time with friends, his '69 Camaro, and his various motorcycles. Following graduation, he learned many different trades and skills. He worked at a local lumber yard, mechanic shop, auto-body shop, upholstery shop, as well as many other side jobs. The skills he amassed served him for years to come. Todd earned the rank of captain in The United States Army National Guard Reserve. He was also a college graduate of Columbia State Community College and The University of North Alabama in Florence. He proudly held the title of Registered Respiratory Therapist, and later became a Registered Nurse with endorsements in Critical Care. He treated a multitude of patients and cared for each of them deeply. Most which he cared for tediously, Merry Jon. In August of 1990, Todd married the love of his life, Sharon Ellen Hunt. They settled down on a modest farm in Giles County, TN. Although not one for expressing feelings or sentiment, he loved her immensely. She was, and still is crazy about him. Together, they were a dynamic duo as parents, each balancing the other for a greater outcome. Together, they had two children, often referred to by Todd as "The Boys". The skills he learned as a young man served him well as he renovated a run-down dairy farm and built the house he and his wife reside in, with his own hands. Todd put 100% into everything he attempted, often times perfecting the task at hand. What he perfected more than anything was his love and dedication for those surrounding him. Selfless to a flaw, he put everyone else's needs before his own whether friend, family member, or complete stranger. He would do absolutely anything in his power for anyone. The world is a worse place for losing him. He spent countless hours teaching his sons to be strong men and respectable fathers, just as he demonstrated to them. In the time preceding his death, Todd faced multiple complications and setbacks, all of which were taken in stride. Despite obstacles, he never complained, winced, or whimpered. He was a true testament of a man, both to his family and those surrounding him. He was strong until the untimely end, and a great example to us all. He was the strongest man his family had ever known. Although we will miss him dearly, we're content that he is pain free, and catching up on much needed time with family past gone. The family would like to offer sincere and utmost gratitude to Dr. Rebecca Hung, not only as a care provider and patient advocate, but also a dear friend to Todd and family. A very special thanks is also given to Louann, Dory, and Robin for checking in on the family during this difficult time. Todd is preceded in death by his father, Jimmy Acton Howell; mother, Merry Jon Howell; sister, Kimberly Howell; and brothers, Michael Howell and Stephen “Steve” Howell. Todd is survived by his wife, Sharon Howell; sons, Harrison Taylor Howell (Racheal), Gregory Acton Howell (Meribeth); grandchildren, Harrison Carpenter Howell, Elaina Kate Howell; sisters, Holly Howell Holt (Tim), Linda Welch Howell (Steve), Jill Howell Grooms (Phil). Todd is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and other family members. Pallbearers will be Greg Howell, Tim Hill, Tim Holt, Tyler Crain, Tate Crain, Taylor Howell. Honorary pallbearers include Dr. Rebecca Hung, Louann Brown (Rickey), Dory Turney Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at 2:30 P.M. at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home with Brother Milton Stephens officiating. Burial will follow in McCains Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Tuesday from 12:00 P.M. until service time at the funeral home. In Lieu of flowers or food, the family simply asks that you do a selfless deed for someone else, as Todd would, or make a donation to the McCains Cemetery Fund. Condolences may be extended online at www.oakesandnichols.com.