Nelson Edward Howell, Franklin, IN, passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026 after a long struggle with COPD. He was 84 years old. Nelson was born in Pendleton, IN, to his parents Charles Edward and Lorena Belle Howell. Nelson answered the call of this nation and served in the United States Air Force before he was honorably discharged after five dedicated years of service. During his time in the military, Nelson was stationed at Larson Air Force Base in Washington state where he met his wife, and love of his life, Jean Ann (Meneely) Howell. They were married on April 9, 1966, and spent 60 loving Years together.

Nelson was a member of the UAW Labor Union and worked in construction for Geupel DeMars Construction Company for over thirty years. Nelson loved to work with his hands; he enjoyed repairing and restoring antique tractors and farming land alongside his family. He also enjoyed various forms of racing. From horse racing, to drag racing, to Daytona, to NASCAR, Nelson was always enthralled with the competitive nature of racing. Additionally, Nelson passionately volunteered for the Boy Scouts of America as a Scouts Master for twenty-five years. He earned the Silver Beaver status, a prestigious position in the Boy Scouts. He loved to spend time with his family any chance he could. Nelson will be remembered for his quiet demeanor, strong willed nature and lifelong strength.

Nelson is survived by his wife, Jean Howell; his children, Patricia Carman, and Aaron Howell; his granddaughters, Sarah (Emmett) Carman Jaeger and Tanna (Eric) Small; his great grandchildren, Emilia, Rachel, Gabby, Jude, and Zane; his siblings, John Howell, George Howell, Ruth (Danny) McClure, and Kathleen Howell; his many nieces and nephews.

Nelson is preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Doris Crump, Margaret Harris, David Howell, and Dennis Howell; his sisters-in-law, Cheryl Howell and Mary Howell; his son-in-law, Timothy Carman.

A visitation for Nelson will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. There will be another time of visitation on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 10:30 am to the time of the funeral. The funeral service will be Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 11:30 am. Nelson will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens following the service at 12:30 pm.

For those choosing to make memorial contributions, the family suggest that donations be sent to the American Lung Association.