Gene Ray Howell

Gene Ray Howell, lovingly known as Ray, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025, in Prague, Oklahoma, at the age of 82. He was born on February 16, 1943, in Temple, Oklahoma, to Eugene Thomas Howell. He was lovingly raised by his mother, Lois, and stepfather, Red Fowler.

Ray spent his early years in Temple before moving to Atoka, Oklahoma, where he attended Atoka Public Schools. It was there, during his junior year of high school, that he met the love of his life, Billie Gail Benefield. The two were united in marriage on October 13, 1962, in Atoka, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned more than six decades.

Following high school, Ray proudly joined the United States Navy, serving four years before transferring to the United States Army to pursue his dream of becoming a pilot. As a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War, he bravely flew missions in service to his country. After his military career, Ray continued to fly professionally, working for Evergreen both internationally and domestically, where he played a vital role in aerial wildfire suppression. Later, he brought his skills home to Oklahoma, flying for MediFlight and helping save lives across the state.

In 1986, after years of living and working in various places, Ray and his family settled in Prague, Oklahoma, which he would proudly call home for the remainder of his life.

Ray was a man of quiet strength, dedication, and unwavering service—to his country, his family, and his community. He was a past member of the Masonic Lodge and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). In his later years, he found joy in time spent with his beloved family and his loyal dog, Diesel.

He was preceded in death by his father, Eugene Thomas Howell; his mother and stepfather, Lois and Red Fowler; and his sister, Barbara Ann Howell.

Ray is survived by his devoted wife, Billie Gail Howell; four daughters, Cindy Howell, Jennifer Howell and her husband Brian Strickler, Lisa Howell and her husband Randall Brown, and Ginger Howell and her husband David Argo; ten grandchildren, Timothy Hogan, Emily Hogan, Joey Hogan, Markie Carlock, Madison Podest, Stormy Blake, Phillip Blake, Jacob Blake, Audrey Lemmings, and Gavin Lemmings; and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his uncle, Pete Corgill, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and his faithful canine companion, Diesel.

Ray Howell will be remembered as a hero, a family man, and a skilled pilot who lived a life of purpose and pride. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.