James C. Howell

Age 69
A devoted animal lover and ladies man

James Howell, an easy going friend to all, a devoted animal lover and a ladies’ man died

after a short skirmish with cancer on November 21st at the age of 69 in his home in Avondale.

Once he realized the fight was futile, he chose the good folks at Willow Tree Hospice to ensure

he could enjoy as many of his final days as possible sitting outside, watching the birds and

petting his cats.

Jim overcame many, many obstacles in life. If the philosopher Nietzsche was correct in saying

that if it doesn’t kill us, it will make us stronger, then Jim was one of the strongest people we

knew. Just one example of his life’s hardships includes growing up hungry at times. However,

being hungry may stimulate artistic abilities. While living in Chadds Ford and attending the local

elementary school, he somehow managed to be given a few art lessons by Andrew Wyeth. Jim

submitted a painting to his school’s art contest and won. The contest was judged by Wyeth, so

he may have had an inside track. Thanks posthumously Mr. Wyeth!

As a young man, Uncle Sam insisted he join his Army and there were days when he wished he

didn’t have an Uncle Sam and had never opened his letter. Still, someone had to serve during

the Vietnam War and so he persevered and was honorably discharged. Goodbye Uncle Sam!

Jim could always attract women. He had three wives, several live in partners and other women

friends. His favorite lady friend was an accomplished belly dancer, who performed for friends

and family with a minimum of encouragement. Thanks Marlene!

Jim spent forty two years working hard as a machine operator. At his retirement, he was given

a plaque to honor “the man, the myth and the legend”. He was never heard wishing he had

worked more, but he did miss his friends and wishes them nothing but the best. Thanks

Dominic!

Jim had a good sense of humor and laughed often. He laughed the most when he was playing

the slots at Delaware Park, even though the odds were stacked against him. As a frequent

visitor he was “comped” with “free” slot dollars and food. Never was a man made happier with

so little, so the joke was on the casino. Thanks John for taking him to the casino and doing the

many other things that eased his final days.

In his later years, a “soldier” who believed in Jehovah and wanted to witness knocked on his

door. Jim soon was a true believer and brooked no transgression of a strict moral code. He

attended Kingdom Hall in Chatham where he experienced many kindnesses. Thank you

Herschel and many others!

Jim chose to forego a viewing and traditional burial and so, per his wishes, his ashes were

strewn in his chosen places. He hopes you will remember to laugh often, love generously and

remain loyal to your family and friends until hell freezes over or sometime thereabouts.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.griecocares.com

Arrangements by the Kuzo & Grieco Funeral Home, Kennett Square, PA

Message from the Family

Thank you for your support during this difficult time.

Please enhance this tribute to Jim by adding your memories and photos.

Services

Funeral Service

Jim chose to forego a viewing and traditional burial and so, per his wishes, his ashes were

strewn in his chosen places

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James C. Howell, please visit our floral store.