John McDade Howell

John McDade Howell, 93, chancellor emeritus of East Carolina University, died peacefully Sunday, Jan. 3, 2016, in Greenville.
During his 30-year career at ECU, he served as a professor of political science and an administrator, retiring in 1987 after five years as chancellor. He will be remembered for his leadership, his unpretentious, easy-going manner and his quick sense of humor. He was well known for his inclusive, generous spirit and for his ability to create beauty and harmony in his home.
John was born on Jan. 28, 1922, in Five Points, Ala., the son of John William and Bettie Mae Lee Howell. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II, attaining the rank of master sergeant and earning a Bronze Star. Dr. Howell majored in journalism and received a master's degree in political science from the University of Alabama, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. He earned a Ph.D. in political science from Duke University in 1952. He taught at Randolph Macon Women's College and Memphis State University before coming to ECU in 1957. He was the author of many articles and monographs on international law and relations.
He met Gladys David when they were both teaching at Randolph Macon, and they married in 1952. They have two sons.
John was predeceased by his parents, a brother and seven sisters. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Gladys, sons, David (wife, Sara Miller) of Durham and Joey (wife, Lisa Neal) of Pittsboro; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family expresses its deep gratitude to Golden Living Center in Greenville for the skilled, compassionate care it provided to John and the family for more than three years. The nursing staff and aides attended him with the highest level of professionalism and warmth.
A memorial celebration will be held Sunday, Jan. 17, at 2 p.m. in A.J. Fletcher Hall, East Carolina University. The family will greet friends at a reception in the foyer following the program.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the John M. and Gladys D. Howell Scholarship Fund. Checks may be made to the ECU Foundation (0189-Howell East Carolina Scholars Award in the memo line) and mailed to: ECU Foundation, Greenville Centre, Suite 1100, 2200 S. Charles Blvd., East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858. Donations may also be made to a charity of one's choice.
Arrangements by Wilkerson Funeral Home & Crematory, Greenville.
Online condolences at www.wilkersonfuneralhome.com.