James A. Howell

Obituary For James A. Howell

Deacon James Anderson Howell was born May 24, 1934, to Jacob and Elworth Alexander Howell, in Palatka, Florida. The 4th of 10 children, James received his education in Putnam County where he graduated high school from Central Academy in 1952. After graduation, James enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served our country abroad in Germany. After the completion of his duties, James was honorably discharged. Once he returned home to Palatka, James found employment at Palm Florist. A master florist, he remained there for 50 years until his retirement. In 1971, James married Blanche Ponzo. They remained joined in matrimony until her passing in 2021. Deacon Howell’s life was intertwined with music. In 1949, James began taking piano and organ lessons. These lessons sparked his love of music, and he would use his gift of song and instruments not only at his church but throughout the county.

James gave his life to Christ at an early age. Known as a man of deep faith, he worked diligently as a member of New Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where he became Chairman of the Deacon Board. In his spare time, James enjoyed reading his Bible, helping to care for the younger members of his family and cooking. He was famous for baking delicious cakes for church functions and holidays. Deacon Howell was known for his colorful suits and was often eager to go shopping in Jacksonville for more. Deacon James A. Howell was called home to be with the Lord of Thursday, August 28, 2024.

He is preceded in death and reunited in Heaven with not only his wife and parents, but also 3 children- Jason, Marvin and Leonard. His siblings – Edward, Goldia, John, Warner, Luther and Elworth. Son in Law – Mack Peak Sr.

He leaves to cherish his memory and continue his legacy:

Daughters, Carolyn Peak and Lana Harris; Sons, Obidiah McCaskill Jr, Gary Howell (Sharon); grandchildren, Tracy Howell(Joshua), Mack Peak III(Nika), Maria Peak(Tietgen), Kendra Dubois, Renee Williams(Greg), Angel Peak(Chris), Tiffany McCaskill(Willie), Jake McCaskill(Veronica), Angie Howard Robbins(Perry), Sharonda Verdell(Michael), Brittnay Gill(Jontae), Sierra Ware, Brittnany Dallas, Shelton Chapman, Danna Cooper; Numerous great and great-great grandchildren; Sister- Helen Johns; Brothers – Lawerence Howell, Ponce Howell; Sisters-in-law – Pauline Howell, Maggie Burks, Harriet Ponzo, Anele Wright; Brothers-in-law– Solomon Ponzo, Harry Ponzo; Special nieces- Elizabeth Mitchell, Kimberly Howell.

A multitude of godchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

VISITATION
5-6 p.m., Friday, September 13, @ New Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 2101 Lundy Road, Palatka, FL
CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Saturday September 14, @ 2:00 pm @ New Mt. Zion Baptist Church 2101 Lundy Road, Palatka, FL

Interment will be held in Palatka Memorial Gardens