Dean W. Howell

Dean W. Howell, a cherished soul, was born on June 4, 1939, in Beebe, Arkansas. She passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, in Collierville, Tennessee, leaving behind a legacy brimming with love, kindness, and creativity that touched many lives.

Dean's journey was marked by her vibrant spirit and dedication to her family. She met her beloved husband, George W. Howell, while working together at Remington Arms, and the two shared a bond that lasted for 38 wonderful years. They enjoyed traveling together and went to Germany, England, France, Australia, Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska. Dean was a spiritual person and on her trip to Israel, she felt blessed to be able to visit Jesus’ birth place, Jerusalem. George was not only her partner but also the love of her life, and together they created a beautiful family.

Dean's pride in her family was profound, and this was echoed in her relationships with her children, Valerie Little (John), Scott Duncan, Marty Duncan, Robert Howell, and Alan Howell (Mary Ann). Her love extended warmly to her grandchildren, Heather Wycough (Mark), Stephanie McIntosh (Josh), Kirsty McCracken (Jimmy), Jack Little, Ryan Edens (Arianna), Allyson Little, Zachary Duncan, Brandon Howell, Amber Howell, Danielle Howell and her niece Jill Duncan, as well as her great-nephew Trace Hubbard and nine great-grandchildren. Each of them held a special place in Dean’s heart, and she often expressed how proud she was of them, championing their accomplishments and showering them with unconditional love.

Graduating from Lonoke High School, Dean carried a bright light with her through life—a light that shone brightly in her interactions with others. Known for her warm smile and kind spirit, she never met a stranger and embraced everyone she met with genuine openness, acting as a social butterfly wherever she went.

While working at Remington Arms she held many positions such as medical clerk, accounting clerk, hearing examiner, and was immensely valuable. She even assisted the Vice President and President of DuPont after the buyout of Remington Arms.

Dean had an extraordinary zest for life. She adored her flower gardens, particularly her beloved roses, and was gifted with the ability to play music by ear. Her love for writing poetry was a reflection of her artistic soul. Traveling both domestically and internationally, Dean created countless memories alongside George and cherished moments exploring the world with her sister Debi and brother-in-law Michael. Together, they shared many adventures, including their delightful sailing trips in Delaware. Having lived in Arkansas, Tennessee, and Delaware they were able to meet many friends. Dean stayed in contact with them for many years even after moving away.

Dean became a close friend to George’s mother , Kathryn Howell, helping take care of her in the last years of her life.

In addition to her many talents, Dean had a knack for creating homemade candy that delighted friends and family during the holidays. Furthermore, her competitive spirit surfaced while playing her favorite card game, Hand and Foot, showcasing yet another aspect of her vibrant personality.

Dean was preceded in death by her parents, Chester and Mary Williams, her brother Willis Dean Williams, and her son Gregory Scott Duncan. Their memories were forever etched in her heart, and she carried their love with her always.

Dean W. Howell leaves behind an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will live on in the laughter of her grandchildren, the beauty of her gardens, the melodies she loved, and the warmth of her spirit. You could often hear her saying, "This is the best I've ever had" and that is exactly what she was, the best we have ever had. She was truly a gift, and the world is a little dimmer without her bright light shining among us.

Visitation will be held at Smith Family Funeral Home in North Little Rock on July 14, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, followed by a funeral service from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Dean will be laid to rest at Butlerville later that day, as her family comes together to celebrate her remarkable life.