Coy L. Howell, Jr., 78, of Chesapeake, passed away Wednesday, December 1, 2021. Born in Norfolk, he was the son of the late Coy L. Howell, Sr. and Evelyn Louise Cromwell Howell. Coy was a 1963 graduate of Norview High School, and was a proud Norview Pilot. He retired after 44 years in the telephone industry, having worked for Bell South, Western Electric, Lucent Technologies and AT&T, where he was a technician, manager and union representative. Coy was a long-time member of Centerville Baptist Church, where he previously served as a Deacon, played on the church softball team, and was a member of the adult choir. Always active in his children's lives, he was a softball coach, "pageant dad", "taxi driver", and financier who was ever present in everything involving his family. These traits were further enhanced when he became a Papa, participating actively in his grandchildren's lives and passions. Lovingly known as "Buzz", he will be remembered for his generosity, quick humor, love of golf, and the ability to care for those around him.



Survivors include his wife of 56 years and high school sweetheart, Linda C. Howell; daughters, Paula Howell Retz and husband Gregory, Beth Howell Forsyth and husband Dave; grandchildren, William and Abigail Retz; a sister, Sue Minter, as well as nieces, nephews and extended family.



Coy's life will be celebrated at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, December 12, 2021 at Oman Funeral Home & Crematory, Chesapeake. The family will receive friends following the service.



In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Coy L. Howell, Jr. Memorial fund, for the benefit of the Disabled American Veterans. Friends are invited to sign the online guest book at www.omanfh.com.



Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Dec. 8, 2021.