Raleigh – Leon Phillip Howell, age 99, left this life August 13, 2021. The son of Dupree and Hattie Howell of Smithfield. The Howell family sent off 4 sons to WWII. A marine, 2 sailors and a soldier. One did not return. Leon was a Pearl Harbor survivor and for more than 60 years a Master Mason of the Masonic Chapter 320 in Selma. It was the bright white uniform that lured Leon to the Navy. The chance to see the world and defend America.

That infamous Sunday morning in December Leon was on the deck of the USS Vega decked at pier 92 writing a letter when sirens began to sound off. His last written words were "Hell just broke loose". Leon sprang to one of the 5-inch deck guns and went into battle. Most of the sailors were on leave that morning except for the few that were unloading the 2 holds of heavy ammunition for the Navy depot.

As the battle began locals ran to assist moving the ammunition to safety. The USS Vega was credited for helping prevent the aircraft from totally destroying that section of Pearl Harbor and also taking down one Japanese aircraft. Leon served honorably on the USS Vega for more than 2 years then moved with a rank of Second-class Engineer to the USS Lloyd E. Acree working with radar on destroyer escorts traveling through the Philippines, China and Japan.

He left the Navy as First-class Machinist Mate. He was awarded the Asiatic Pacific with 2 stars, America Area, Philippine Liberation, American Defense Service, WWII Victory medal and good conduct medal. He especially loved the large white pearl that held a place of honor on his sailor cap. Leon's experience in the Navy played an important role in his life. It taught him teamwork, discipline and investing in a cause larger than himself.

He would often explain "Let me tell you", how he learned to cherish each day, to love his family, God and his country. Leon lived his life always with a smile, laughter, always joking, a song, performing in a band with a harmonica and guitar. Above all he thanked God he gave him the chance to live life for 99 years. He considered himself very blessed. A life well lived is a precious gift of hope, strength and grace from someone who made our world a brighter, better place.

Leon retired from Borden Ice Cream company. He later worked with Thompson Cabinet Shop. Leon spent summers traveling the USA visiting ship mates and making new friends along the way. He visited Pearl Harbor and Alaska several times. He especially loved taking part in the Triangle Flight of Honor 2011 to D.C.

Leon was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Myrtle T. Howell. Leon is survived by the love of his life over 16 years, Jean, a combined family of children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews that he loved dearly who will continue to share his stories of the attack on Pearl Harbor, WWII and the heroes that emerged from that conflict.

Arrangements by Parrish Funeral Home, Selma NC. Condolences may be made online and other times at the residence in Raleigh. In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the "Western Film Preservation Society" Ed Wyatt Chapter, mail to Nikki Ellerbe 2404 Rock Ridge Ct. Raleigh NC 27612 or to the Wounded Warriors or other veteran charities of your choice.