Samuel Wesley "Sam" Howell

Samuel Sam W. Howell, 66, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, December 21, 2021, in his Virginia home with his wife, Barbara, at his side. Sam was a man of many talents who always strived to leave a person and/or place better than he found it. Leaving people and places better than he found them was intentional. He was known for his ability to fix just about anything with his creative craftsmanship and his enormous heart. He was an avid learner and teacher in the same breath. He passed his love of tools and hard work down to his daughters (No pink tools, Dad!). After more than 30 years of dedicated service to a retirement community where he was often celebrated by honorary grandmas, Sam and Barbara relocated to Virginia where Sam transitioned his skills into the foodservice industry. Over the last several years, Sam had fixed machines, learned, taught, and laughed with friends while working for Cookout Restaurants. To know Sam was to love Sam. Always quick with a smile, a laugh, and a helping hand, Sam prided himself on being there for his family and friends. Watching people light up when they spoke with him was the perfect reflection of who he was as a human, husband, and father. His greatest gift to others was his time in both work and play. He loved pizza, cheese and crackers, a good sci-fi movie, MotorTrend, and being surrounded by his favorite people. He did not love Yahtzee. Abba and Chicago were his soundtrack; Jive Talkin was his jam. Sam is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Barbara; his daughters, Christen (Dan; grandsons, Gideon and Elliot) of Colorado, and Cara (Andy; grand-dogs, Sophie and Bentley) of Virginia; sister, Esther Ann (David; niece, Amanda, and nephews, DJ, Greg, and Glenn); and brother, Pete (Dee; nephew, Peter); as well as their spouses and families. Additionally, Sam is survived by many great friends and co-workers that he met along the way. As Sam would say, You know who you are! Sams first and deepest love was his family, and he was deeply loved in return. He has taken pieces of our hearts with him and left us with wonderful memories. A private service was held for Sams wife and daughters. A memorial service may be announced at a later date. With family in our hearts, we ask that in lieu of flowers donations be made to TinySuperheroes. With special meaning to our family and many others, TSH supports and encourages the parents, siblings, and children that face medical challenges in everyday life: Where some see adversity, we see the extraordinary. In remembrance of Sam, you can donate at https://campaigns.tinysuperheroes.com/e/9KqyaRKa/share. Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com. Service Details.