Willie Joel Howard

W. Joel  Howard, 87, of Thorsby, Alabama passed away June 22, 2025, at his residence.

He was born June 12, 1938, in Shelby County, Alabama, son of Rev. Willie Howard and Frances Vanderslice Howard.

He was a Sales Representative for American Lumber in Birmingham, Alabama.

Surviving are his Wife, Shirley Howard; Daughter, Retha (Paul) Bryant; Grandsons, Matthew (Hannah) Bryant, Stephen (Caroline) Bryant; Great-Granddaughter, McKenzie Bryant; Great-Grandsons, Isaiah Bryant, Jackson Bryant; Step-Daughter, Debra (Joe) Hubbard; and a host of nieces and nephews that he loved very much.

He was preceded in death by his Father, Rev. Willie Howard, Mother, Frances Vanderslice Howard, Sister, Louise (Herby) Miller, Sister, Hazel (Buddy) Smith, Step-Son, Darryl Plier.

Friends will be received Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home Chapel.

Services will be held Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Martin Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Ladon Miller and Rev. Tommy Williams officiating.

Pallbearers will include: Dewayne Miller, Tim Smith, Glenn Clark, Keith Acreman, Timothy Acreman; Joey Bryant.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Chilton County Humane Society; 139 Shade Tree Drive, Clanton, Alabama 35045.

The family would like to thank Suncrest Home Health and Southern Care Hospice for their caring hearts and wonderful service.

Martin Funeral Home directing.

You may leave online condolences for the family on the guest registry at www.martinfuneralhomeinc.com.