In Loving memory of Terry Robert Howell who passed away peacefully at home outside of Pataskala, Ohio November 12, 2025

Terry Robert Howell was one of a kind — a brilliant mind, a gentle soul, and a man who could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. Whether you met him on a New York subway or at the local record shop, you walked away smiling and somehow feeling like old friends.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Terry grew up in Ashland, Ohio surrounded by the love including that of his grandmother, who left an indelible mark on his curious and quick-witted nature. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame with an advanced degree in Mathematics — a subject that fascinated him not just for its logic, but for its complexities.

Terry spent his career teaching, first and foremost because he loved to share knowledge. He retired from The Ohio State University/Central Ohio Technical College after many years of shaping young minds and also taught part-time at Denison University — often using his Denison paychecks to surprise Sheila with a special piece of jewelry, each one carrying a story of love and devotion.

He and Sheila built their life together in the countryside outside Pataskala, trading living “in town” for wide-open skies and a home filled with laughter, books, music, and animals. Terry quickly grew to love country living and could never see himself living any other place.

Above all else, Terry was a devoted husband and father. He made it home each afternoon to greet Candice, Dustin, and Brittany after school, fixing them imaginative dinners and helping with homework before heading out again to teach his evening classes. Together, he and Sheila were a team — a magnificent duo balancing work, family, and love with grace and partnership.

His passions ran deep and wide. He adored music — from punk to classic rock to the old blues greats like Buddy Guy and Muddy Waters — and his collection of over 3,000 CDs is a testament to that love. He had a keen mind for puzzles, an endless library of math books, and a heart for animals, especially those rescued through Ohio Fuzzy Pawz.

Terry will be remembered for his warmth, curiosity, and kindness — for being unapologetically himself, wonderfully quirky, and endlessly compassionate. He never saw anyone as a stranger, just a story waiting to be heard.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sheila Howell, and their children, Candice Howell, Dustin Howell (Hannah), and Brittany Bey (Dan); his brothers, Doug (Char) and Mike (Cathie); and eight wonderful grandchildren. Also carrying on his spirit are his beloved pets, Sophia, Cody, and Eppy.

He was preceded in death by his parents and countless four-legged friends who surely greeted him joyfully on the other side.

A celebration of Terry’s life (one as unique and vibrant as the man himself) will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 4 pm at Brick House Blue, 7775 Walton Parkway, New Albany, OH 43054.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Ohio Fuzzy Pawz in his honor.  

https://www.ohiofuzzypawz.com/info/donate

“Let the music play on, may the rhythm never fade.”