Janel Crutchfield Howell

After a life devoted to family and service, Janel Crutchfield Howell peacefully passed away on November 10, 2025. Born in 1940, in Decatur, Georgia, Janel was the cherished daughter of Janie Mae Wing and Paul W. Crutchfield. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and loyal friend.

Janel grew up in Decatur, Georgia, where she enjoyed a happy childhood surrounded by friends. She was a teen model and proudly held the title of Miss DeKalb County. After graduating from Decatur High School, Janel attended the University of Alabama on a majorette scholarship. A member of Phi Mu sorority, she earned her degree in education in 1961 and remained a lifelong supporter of Alabama football-Roll Tide!

Her teaching career began in Pensacola, Florida, where she taught third grade. It was there she met the love of her life, Jefferson Davis "Beak" Howell Jr., a young Marine F-4 fighter pilot. They married on April 1, 1966, and soon after, Jeff deployed to Vietnam. Together, they embarked on an extraordinary journey that included 22 moves worldwide-three of them to Hawaii! Janel embraced every new chapter with warmth and hospitality, earning the affectionate title of "Chief of Stuff" from Jeff for her ability to make every house a home.

Janel's commitment extended far beyond her own family. She became a tireless advocate for Marine families, playing a pivotal role in creating programs that strengthened the military community. Her efforts included the Key Volunteer Network, the Joint Women's Conference, and the Marine Corps Family Team Building Program. Her leadership and dedication earned her widespread respect. In 1998, the Commandant of the US Marine Corps, General Charles Krulak, presented Janel with special recognition for her incredible service.

Janel loved deeply and lived fully. She adored her five grandchildren and treasured time with family. Her passions included Alabama football, Phi Mu sisterhood, dancing, dachshunds, Hawaii, genealogy, and simple pleasures like Varsity hot dogs and Tex-Mex with a salted margarita. She was a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the Confederacy, and she spent countless joyful hours researching family history.

Janel was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Lt. General Jefferson Davis Howell Jr., who passed away on July 1, 2025. She is survived by her son Jefferson Davis Howell III (Beth), her daughter Melissa Jane Howell Strubbe (Steve), and five beloved grandchildren: Colton, Teegan, & Beckett Howell, and Wolfgang & Johann Strubbe.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate care team at Hospice Austin and the dedicated caregivers at Cella Bella for their kindness and support during Janel's final days.

Services will be held December 15, 2025, 11 am, at the Texas State Cemetery in Austin, Texas. Texas casual or aloha attire, please.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Janel's memory to Hospice Austin: https://www.hospiceaustin.org/get-involved/donate/donation-form/

Howell, Janel Crutchfield