Laverne “Skeet” Howell, 89, of Chumuckla, passed away on Monday, November 7, 2016. Laverne was born April 5, 1927, in Detroit, Michigan, to James Ira and Elo Howell. His mother died when he was 6 weeks old. His father then brought Skeet back to Chumuckla where he was raised by his great Aunt, Ida Campbell.

Skeet was a U.S. Navy veteran and worked in civil service at NAS Pensacola for 33 years. After retirement he continued raising cattle and spent many years researching, growing, and harvesting pine trees. He loved his family and friends and enjoyed being a part of their lives, sharing in their accomplishments and supporting their efforts in many ways.

Skeet was an able educator to the public on the history of his community and his country. Hundreds in the community and surrounding areas enjoyed learning from Skeet. Skeet’s Museum reflected his devotion to preserving history. In the past, Skeet’s Museum was a stop on the annual Santa Rosa Agricultural Tour.

Skeet is preceded in death by his parents; first wife of 49 years,Laurel A. Howell; and special family member, Richard Enfinger.

He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Vera Gillis Howell; children, Jimmy (Sharon) Howell, Nancy (Sandy) Wyatt, Lana (Mike) Martin, Gordan (Lana) Howell, Stephen (Gail) Howell; stepchildren, Jim (Diane) Gillis, Bobbie (Gary) Hagler, Wade (Connie) Gillis, Marguerite (Steve) Mathews; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Thursday, November 10, 2016, at Lewis Funeral Home in Milton, Florida.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 11, 2016, at Lewis Funeral Home, Milton Chapel with Jeremy Wyatt, Rev. Andy Martin, and Wes Mathews officiating. Graveside services will follow services in Jesse Carter Allen Cemetery, in Allentown.
Active pallbearers are Nick Howell, Eric Howell, Mitchell Howell, Kevin Gillis, Wayne Hagler, and Wes Mathews.

Honorary pallbearers are Adrian Witt, Randy Locklear, James Campbell, Victor Campbell, Ricky O’Kelley, Marty Griswold, Von Griswold, Kelley Schwarz, and Mike Acuff.