Mr. Ralph Elmo Howell, Jr., age 79 passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 in Winston-Salem, NC. He was formerly from Patrick and Henry Counties, growing up in the Sanville community. His parents were Ralph Elmo Howell, Sr. and Georgia Inez Koger Howell.
He was a graduate of John D. Bassett High School Class of 1965. After school he served as an electronics technician in the United States Coast Guard. He was very humble, respectful, professional, loyal, and a good listener during his life and career. He loved the outdoors, especially watersports and skiing at Philpott Lake, riding his Harley-Davidson while going on trips with his friends; enjoyed shooting, restoring old cars and attending car shows, watching college basketball and comedies on television. He was very musically talented and could play any instrument, with the guitar being his favorite.
He retired as a Master Trooper with the Virginia State Police in 2004, and upon retirement he worked part-time as a bailiff with the Patrick County Sherriff’s Department.
Mr. Howell is survived by his wife of 43 years, Lynne Bergquist Howell of Winston-Salem, NC; four children: Nicole H. Francisco (Shannon) of Winston-Salem, NC; Jennifer H. Foley of Belews Creek, NC; Meredith H. Cisco (Chris) of Stuart, VA; and Luke T. Howell of Winston-Salem, NC. Seven grandchildren: Travis D. Francisco of Winston-Salem, NC; Trevor D. Francisco USAF Dyess AFB, TX; Trenton D. Francisco USN North Island Coronado, CA; Jeremy C. Hall, Jordan D. Foley, and Dustin N. Howell all of Belews Creek, NC; and Cassie E. White of Woolwine, VA; one great-granddaughter: August K. Wilson; one brother: Rodney D. Howell (Faye) of Sanville, VA; and the mother of his daughters and friend: Shirley Ashworth Pearson of Belews Creek, NC; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Services for Mr. Howell will be private. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.moodyfuneralservices.com.
