Joseph Howell was born in Jasper, FL in 1954 to the late Willie Howell and Healer Bridges. He attended Hamilton County Schools and graduated. He worked for Hamilton County Schools for several years. Later, he worked in lawn services where he loved beautifying lawns.

He could find humor in all circumstances and kept people around him laughing. He was always jolly and loved joking with his nurses and bringing treats to them at his clinic appointments and home visits. His positive attitude helped him be strong through treatments with a report of 'I did good' after each appointment.

He is survived by one brother: Otis 'O.P.' Howell, nieces: Victoria Aikens, Sandra Grimmage (Johnny) and Thelma 'Lois' Merrick (Al). Great niece: Iesha Crawford and great nephews: Rakeem 'Roc' Battle (Caitlyn), Nicholas Williams, Ja'Sean Merrick, and Josiah Merrick. Devoted friend/caregiver: Kathy Smith. Close family and friends: The Peach Family (Patti and John), Jeffrey Pierce and a host of cousins and friends.