Charles Ben Howell

HOWELL, CHARLES BEN (1925 ~ 2003) Charles Ben Howell, state judge, was born on August 14, 1925, in Hannibal, Missouri to Ben and Mary Howell. After graduating from high school, he joined the United States Merchant Marines, where he served as a 3rd Officer. He later graduated from the University of Missouri and received a law degree from Saint Louis University, where he graduated Cum Laude and was associated editor of the law review. Before moving to Texas, he practiced law in Illinois, Indiana and Missouri.

After moving to Texas in 1957, Howell continued his private practice, but also became very active in the Republican Party. His first campaign was for Dallas City Council. Although he did not win, he was later elected Judge of the 191st Judicial District of Texas. He held that position from 1980 to 1984, when he resigned to run for the 5th Texas Court of Appeals. Successful in this campaign, Howell served in that capacity until 1990.

Between 1986 and 1994, Howell ran five times for the Texas Supreme Court. Though unsuccessful in his attempts, he continued serving the State and people of Texas as a visiting judge.

An avid cyclist, Howell completed several 500-mile races and cycled across Texas during one of his bids for the Supreme Court.

Judge Howell passed away on June 27, 2003, and was buried next to his wife, Pat, in the Texas State Cemetery five days later. Judge and Mrs. Howell are survived by three daughters, Karen, Jonnette and Jonnita, and two granddaughters, Chelsea and Ashley.

Information taken from: obituary, Dallas Morning New, Monday, June 30, 2003, and Charles Ben Howell * 1925 - 2003: Colorful state judge marched to his own drummer, Austin American-Statesman, Tuesday, July 1, 2003.