Thomas Howell

Thomas Lee Howell, 72, passed away on May 17, 2024 in Amarillo, Tx. Services will be at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at Brooks Chapel with Rev. Ron Brewer officiating. Burial will follow at Dreamland Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at Brooks Chapel.

Tom was born July 30, 1951 in Merced, California. He was the son of Wanda and Kenneth Stuart and Elmer Lee Howell.

Tom was raised in Artesia, NM where he graduated in 1969. He then attended Silver City College, Eastern NM University, and enlisted in the Army Reserves.

Tom married the love of his life, Vicki Ranspot on October 28, 1977 and became the doting father to her children Heather and Derek Trapp.

Tom began his career with the City of Artesia, serving in various roles. He began in the sanitation department working his way up to City Manager. During his time in Artesia, he was an active member of the Jaycees, served as a volunteer firefighter, was an avid Bulldog fan, and a faithful member of Clark Memorial United Methodist Church where he served on the finance committee as well as youth group leader.

Tom and Vicki relocated to Portales, NM in 1998 to be closer to family. In Portales, he was employed as Public Works Director and later as City Supervisor until his retirement. While in Portales, he attended First Methodist Church where he continued his service in business and finance.

In 2018, Tom and Vicki retired to Canyon, Tx. During his retired years he attended 45 rock concerts and went on 3 cruises with his bride. He was a collector of novelty t-shirts, was a master fisherman, loved old cars, going to the racetracks, was a cuisine connoisseur, and loved little daily adventures.

Those left to cherish his memory are wife, Vicki Howell; daughter, Heather and (Brandon) Farren; son Derek and (Kelly) Trapp; 4 grandchildren, Christian and (Morgan) Farren, Madeleine and (Tanner) Fleeman, Heather Trapp, and Thomas Trapp. He is also survived by 4 great grandsons, sister Nancy Howell Brinson, and numerous nieces and nephews.