James Richard “Dickie” Howell, 90, died Monday, May 11, 2026.

He was born Sept. 26, 1935 to James and Martha (Sawyer) Howell.

He married Anna Marie Allen July 25, 1959. She preceded him in death May 8, 2022.

He attended school in Meade, graduating in 1953.

He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1954. He served during the Korean Conflict and was honorably discharged in 1957 with the rank of Sergeant.

He was an active oilfield consultant most of his life and owned his own company, How Co., in Liberal, Kansas until his retirement.

He was inducted into the Western Swing Hall of Fame in 2011.

Survivors include three children: Valencia Hernandez, Deanna Howell, and James “Jimmy” R. Howell II;  sister, Laverta Delong; three grandchildren: Kera Snyder, Adreanne Hernandez, and Anthony Hernandez; eight great grandchildren; and many other family and friends.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Nadine Stanley and Babe Kelmer.

• Friends may call from 12 to 5 p.m. Thursday, May 14, 2026 at Hornung Family Funeral Home at 1212 W. 2nd Street in Liberal.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, May 15, 2026 at the Hornung Family Funeral Home Chapel.

Burial will follow at the Liberal City Cemetery. 

Memorials are suggested to Shriners Children’s Hospital in care of Hornung Family Funeral Home, 1212 W. 2nd Street, Liberal, KS 67901.

Condolences may be left at www.hornungfuneralhome.com.