Ret. SFC Walter Preston Howell

Fayetteville

Walter Preston Howell, 87 yrs, passed away surrounded by love and the legacy of a life well lived on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. A proud veteran, devoted family man, and steadfast presence in the lives of those who knew him, he will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

He served honorably in the United States Army for over 20 years, attaining the rank of Sergeant First Class. His service included deployment during the Vietnam War, where he demonstrated courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to his country. His military career was not only a point of pride but a testament to his strength of character and dedication to something greater than himself.

Beyond his military accomplishments, Walter will be remembered as being a devout follower of Christ and for his love of family and friends. He was a loving husband, a devoted stepfather/father, and an amazing grandfather whose presence brought strength, wisdom, and warmth to those around him. His quiet strength and steady guidance left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Walter Howell and Ruth Harnage Howell; first wife, Anne Howell; his beloved wife, Wanda Howell; step-son, James Hutsell; grandson, Kevin Howell; and his siblings, Charles Howell, Larry Howell, Linda and husband James Jacobs, Marcus Howell, Pheylene Caraway, and brother-in-law, Randall Caswell (Carmalita).

He leaves to cherish his memory his children; step-daughter, Tracey Jose and husband Edgardo; daughter-in-law, Catherine (Cathy) Hutsell; son, Richard Howell; and daughter, Christina Howell and granddaughter Jordan. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Camerin Watson and husband Kentsey, Benjamin Hutsell and wife Logan, and Steven Hutsell; as well as his precious great-grandchildren, Reagan Watson and Carson Hutsell. He is further survived by his siblings, Carmalita Caswell, Donald Howell and wife Teresa, and Minerva Alford; along with his in-laws, Peggy Howell (Charles), Gail Howell (Larry) and John Caraway (Pheylene).

Funeral will be held at 10:45 AM Thursday, April 30, 2026 at Butler Funeral Home Chapel in Stedman, officiating will be Pastor Kevin Edwards. Burial with full military honors will follow at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery in Spring Lake.The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM Thursday at the funeral home prior to the service.

Though he is no longer with us, his legacy of love, service, and devotion will live on through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Services entrusted to Butler Funeral Home, 6535 Clinton Road, Stedman, NC 28391.