John W. Howell,III April 19, 1936 - February 13, 2022

John William Howell III, age 85 of Ozark, Missouri passed away Sunday, February 13, 2022, in Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri. He was born April 19, 1936 in West Helena, Arkansas, the son of John W. Howell II and Jimmie (Porter) Howell. John was raised by his mother and two aunts, Ellie and Fanny Porter. He attended Fair Grove High School and during 1953, John enlisted in the United States Marines. He was stationed in California and was extremely proud to serve his country and be a Marine. After the death of first wife Julie, John was united in marriage to Mary Ann (Bilyeu) on August 27, 2013.

John was employed in the construction business for 20 years and later retired from Roadway Trucking, after 27 years of dedicated service. John was a longtime member of the NRA, and a big gun enthusiast, which earned him the honorable nickname, Gunny. He enjoyed participating in many shooting competitions over the years. John was also a 50 year life member of the Masonic Lodge and Shriner, as well as a Scottish Rite. John was a good, honest man, loving husband, caring father and wonderful grandfather. He will be sadly missed, but will live on forever in the loving hearts of his family and friends. John is truly home now.

In addition to his late wife Julie, John was also preceded in death by his parents, two aunts, a step-daughter Lisa Hunter, and one brother David Martin. John is survived by his wife Mary Ann Howell; brother John Emmett Howell of Arkansas; step-daughter Laura Parmalee; step-son Gene Brewer; grandsons Jacob and Logan Wooldridge; two step-sons Robert Manthei (Becky) and Brandon Surls; four additional grandchildren Brandon Manthei ( Priscilla), Brittney Myrick (Justin), Christina Manthei and Chelsea Ramsey (Kyle); and many great-grandchildren.

Graveside funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Friday, February 18, 2022 at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, 5201 S. Southwood Road, Springfield, Missouri. No visitation is planned.  Arrangements and services are under the care of Barnes Family Funeral Home, Ozark, Missouri. Online condolences may be shared at www.barnesfamilyfunerals.com.