On the morning of Nov. 29, 2012, Giles Webb Howell, known warmly to his many friends as “Webb,” died of natural causes at his home in Ridgeland, Miss. He was 59 years old. Webb led a focused, passionate, and colorful life and will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him.
Webb leaves his devoted wife of 21 years, Sherry J. Howell, with whom he shared many adventures and traveled extensively. Webb’s favorite destination was Orange Beach, Ala., where he loved to relax and visit with friends as often as his busy schedule allowed.
Webb began life in Atlanta, Ga., and soon returned to Fayetteville, Ga., where he finished high school. Webb continued his education at the University of West Georgia and The American College in Bryn Mawr, Penn., where he received certifications as a Chartered Life Underwriter, a Chartered Financial Consultant, and a Chartered Leadership Fellow.
In 1974, Webb began a distinguished career with State Farm Insurance Company as an agent in Peachtree City, Ga. Through his dedication and hard work over the years, Webb attained numerous leadership positions including Southern Zone Vice President, a position he held from 2002 until his death. Webb was described by another State Farm leader as a person who “personified State Farm and our mission and vision of helping people; not only helping customers, but through his leadership and friendship, helping each and every one of us in our jobs and our lives. He was an insightful leader and had a unique ability to analyze and resolve any issue.”
Webb had many friends with whom he loved to share his time and his appetite for good food and a full life. Webb’s wry and sometimes self-deprecating humor was always a crowd pleaser and brought laughter and joy to those around him. Webb also enjoyed pursuing many hobbies including physical fitness, trap shooting, scuba diving, classic cars, gun collecting, and cooking. Webb always excelled at any endeavor he undertook.
Webb was preceded in death by his parents, Luther Floyd Howell and Betty Joe Webb Howell.
A memorial service was held Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2012, at 1 p.m. at Carl J. Mowell & Son Funeral Home on North Jefferson Davis Drive in Fayetteville, Ga.
Visitation will follow the service. Memorials in Webb’s honor may be made to Community Animal Rescue & Adoption, Inc. (C.A.R.A.), P.O. Box 231, Clinton, Miss. 39060 or to a favorite charity.
Because of Webb’s generous nature and curious spirit, the sadness felt by Webb’s family and friends is equalled by the many warm and happy memories Webb left to be relived and passed on. He touched everyone he met in his unique way and we are all better for having had him in our lives.
