Howell Otis Cearley

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Howell Otis Cearley, Jr., age 75 of Belton, Texas, passed away in Granbury, Texas on March 29. 2025. The family is deeply saddened and shocked by his sudden death. A devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather, and friend to many in Central Texas, Howell was a man of great integrity and well respected by those who knew him.

Howell was born on January 26, 1950, at Sewell Hospital in Belton, Texas; a son of the late Howell Otis Sr. and Josie Cearley. Howell is survived by his loving wife Judy (Horton) of 53 years; his sister Kay (Thornton); brother Ausie; his children Jodi (Chad), and Amy (Michael); and 5 grandchildren, William, Archer, Ainsley, Charlie, and Hattie. In addition to his family, he leaves behind a legacy of well-built homes and structures that stand as a testament to his skilled craftsmanship and dedication.

Howell graduated from Salado High School and was a proud member of the 1968 Class B Championship football team. He earned a business degree from the University of Mary Hardin Baylor in Belton, Texas. After working alongside his father at Cearley Construction for over 25 years, Howell transitioned to a career as a vocational teacher at Belton Independent School District where he helped mentor and inspire students to pursue careers in the skilled trades. Upon retirement from the school district, he was a highly respected and skilled contractor working with homeowners in Bell County to deliver quality construction projects at a fair price. No matter the task, Howell was always ready to lend a hand. Whether it was a neighbor in need, a friend facing hardship, or projects at his daughters’ residences, he was trusted by all and dependable as the day is long.

Affectionately known in the family as “Poppa” or “The Admiral,” Howell found his greatest joy spending time with his loved ones at Lake Granbury. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and Howell never missed an opportunity to watch a ball game, teach them how to hunt and fish, or to spend holidays making memories by the water. Howell leaves behind a legacy of love and a deep appreciation for the simple joys in life. After a day on the lake, a good meal, and some homemade ice cream, Howell would utter his famous phrase, “This is Livin”; words which will live on for generations etched on the dock at Lake Granbury. He will be greatly missed by those lives he touched.

A visitation will be conducted on April 1, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Dossman Funeral Home in Belton, Texas. A Celebration of Life will be held on April 2, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Dossman Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Salado Historical Society in his honor.