Joseph Bryan Alexander Howell

Joseph was born on July 21, 1995, in Odessa and passed away on February 22, 2026, in Alvarado, Texas, the son of Melissa and Johnny Howell. From the very beginning, Joseph lived life at his own pace—arriving two weeks after his due date and never hurrying much after that. He graduated from Odessa High School in 2013 and remained close with many friends from his tight-knit circle throughout his life.
Joseph had a deep passion for cars, especially Formula One racing, which was his first love. His need for speed extended beyond the track to motorcycles and roller coasters. He had a natural curiosity about how things worked and seemed to know random facts most people would never think to learn. As a child, he dreamed of becoming a pilot, but hemophilia prevented him from pursuing that path. Determined to stay close to the skies he loved, he enrolled in school for aeronautical engineering and was studying in that field at the time of his cancer diagnosis.
A true foodie, Joseph had the culinary talent of a professional chef. His first job was at Rosa’s Café—mainly, he would say, for the “free food.” Even during his 14-month battle with cancer, his only real complaint was not being able to eat after surgery. His love for food never faded.
Joseph never met a stranger. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere—and once he got started, it was hard to get him to stop. His warmth, compassion, and generosity were evident in the way he showed up for others. He was always ready to help anyone in need.
He shared a lively bond with his two brothers and two sisters. Despite the usual sibling rivalry, disagreements, and chaos, Joseph loved them fiercely and would have done anything for them.
He was also a proud uncle to six nieces and nephews, who lovingly called him “Uncle JoJo.” Whether hosting tea parties or playing video games, Joseph was always fully present with them. To them, he was simply “awesome.”
Above all, Joseph was most proud of being a father. His greatest joy and accomplishment were his two children, Jethro and Eleanor. They were his entire world. He fought courageously against cancer to stay with them as long as he could. He once shared that he was not afraid of dying, but he was fearful of leaving his children behind and missing the moments of their lives.
Joseph is survived by his beloved wife, Danielle Thornton; his son, Jethro; and his daughter, Eleanor. He is also survived by his parents, Melissa and Johnny Howell; his sister, Leah Sabel (Dalton); his brother, Zachary Foster (Mallory Jones); his brother, Noah Foster (Ashley); and his sister, Isabella Howell. He leaves behind his cherished nieces and nephews: Parker, Landry, Chevelle, Valen, Kyndall, and Adilynn. He is also survived by his aunts, Tracy Harper (Chad) and Dana Humphreys (Leon), grandmother, Cecilia Howell, Uncle Kyle Foster (Dominique), and his best friend, Trey Tapp.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Douglas and Judy Archer, and his paternal grandfathers, Vernon Foster and Johnny Howell Sr.
Joseph will be remembered for his quick wit, his big heart, his endless curiosity, and his deep love for his family and friends. His presence filled every room, and his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
The family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Bilal Salame, Dr. Brian Gogel, and AlevCare Hospice for their compassionate care and support.
A memorial service will be held on March 7, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post, located at 2701 E. 8th Street, Odessa, TX 79761.