Larry Howell

With deep sorrow and abiding love, we announce the passing of William Larry Howell, affectionately known as Larry, who was born in Morristown, Tennessee on November 25, 1940, to Lawrence and Henrietta Howell (Gates). Larry departed this life on August 8th, 2025 at the age of 84.

Larry moved to Middletown, Ohio, at the age of eight where he attended Middletown schools through high school. Larry was an excellent student, going on to further his education at Miami University. In 1964, Larry married Claudette Whitner, and to this union was born their only son, Jeffery Lawrence Howell. Family was a top priority for Larry, never missing a birthday, special occasion, or opportunity to celebrate the ones he loved. Larry's life as a father, grandfather, brother, and uncle was one of unwavering love and commitment which he cherished with quiet strength and deep grace. He was a member in good standing at Bethel AME Church where even after moving to Florida, he remained faithful and supportive of every activity at Bethel. Larry was also an Associate Member of Gateway Worship Center in Punta Gorda, FL. 

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Larry played both basketball, baseball, and later ran Senior Citizen Track. He was an exceptional player of the Middletown Barons Softball Team and played Senior League softball in Punta Gorda. He was also known for his passion for Fantasy Football, where he engaged in friendly banter and good-natured trash talk with his fellow owners in the Pryme Tyme Ballerz Fantasy League for 21 years. Larry was an avid Cincinnati Reds and Bengals fan and loved talking intently about both with whomever would listen.

Larry’s successful career in the United States Postal Service began in Middletown, Ohio. He went on to serve as postmaster in Cincinnati, Ohio, Springboro, Ohio,and Delaware, Ohio. As well as a high level District Manager in Ft. Thomas, KY, Columbus, Ohio, Evansville, Indiana, Omaha, Nebraska, and finally St. Louis, Missouri where he was being considered for United States Postmaster General. Larry retired from the United States Postal Service in 1998 after over 30 years of dedicated service.  

Larry’s story found a vibrant new chapter with Iver Sydnor, who became his best friend, partner, and wife in 2011. Larry and Iver built a loving community of friends who felt more like family in Punta Gorda, Florida.  Larry lived a full and vibrant life, always on his own terms, and retirement only fueled Larry’s love of adventure—especially traveling with his wife, and enjoying the sunshine and warm breezes of Florida. His love of travel took them both all around the world, Dubai being his favorite. Larry also had a deep love of theater, spending time with friends, and engaging in Sport’s Trivia.

Larry was a man of integrity and principle, a protector, and a quiet force for good. He will be remembered for his generous heart, sharp wit, and love of his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Iver Howell; his son, Jeffery Lawrence Howell(Stephanie); his three granddaughters, Tatum(Kirk), Sydney(Antonio), and Camryn;  his three great-grandchildren, Lauren, Langston, and Elliott; his sisters Lynda Jordan and Jennifer Luke, and a host of nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Lawrence Howell, and Henrietta Howell (Gates) and Wilbur Gates.

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