William Lockhart “Billy” Howlett, 79, of Columbia, died January 5, 2019, at Sentara-Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City.

Born in Tyrrell County, April 14, 1939, he was the son of the late Treadwell and Winifred Phelps Howlett. He was married to the former Linda Proctor, who survives. He was owner and operator Howlett Backhoe and Bulldozer Services from 1971 until his death.

He was a member of Columbia Missionary Baptist Church and attended Soundside Missionary Baptist Church, served in U. S. Army during the Vietnam Era and upon his return served as a security guard and canine trainer at Odem Prison in Roanoke Rapids and was a member of the American Legion Post 182.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Soundside Missionary Baptist Church. Rev. Stephen Duncan, will officiate. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the funeral at the church and other times at the home.

Surviving in addition to his wife are son Timothy William Howlett of Columbia; daughter Karen Howlett York and husband, Craig of Whitsett; sister Mary Lou Howlett of the home; grandchildren Kyle Brickhouse, Brittany York, Michael York, Casey Howlett and Tara Howlett; three great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by brother James Horace “Jimmy” Howlett.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the American Legion Post Number 182, c/o Leroy Spivey, 271 Mills Road, Columbia NC 27925 or to Soundside Missionary Baptist Church, c/o Tonya Davenport, Treas., 177 Riverneck Road, Columbia NC 27925.

Arrangements are by Bryan Funeral Service. Columbia Chapel and online sympathy messages may be directed to www.bryanfs.com.

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