Billy Wayne Howell
December 9, 1956 ~ January 23, 2026
Celebrating the life of Billy Wayne Howell, a man whose spirit and love deeply touched all who knew him. Born December 9, 1956, in Wichita, Kansas, Billy lived a full and compassionate life until his death on Friday, January 23, 2026.
A long-time resident of Wichita, KS, Billy shared 49 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Debra Howell. Together, they built a life founded on faith, family, love, and shared adventures. Billy was a devout member of Newspring Church, reflecting his Christian faith through his actions and commitments to his community.
Billy’s educational journey led him through East High School and later to Friends University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree. His career as a Manufacturing Engineer spanned an impressive 40 years at Boeing/Spirit Aerosystems. Additionally, Billy served honorably in the Marine Corps, a testament to his dedication and love for his country, from which he was honorably discharged.
His hobbies and interests were as vast as his personality was vibrant. He was an avid reader and had a keen interest in politics. Billy found great joy in traveling—especially his 40 cruises through and extensive camping trips to more than 20 national parks across the United States. His travels also included visits to nearly all presidential libraries, showcasing his deep appreciation for history and education.
Billy’s commitment to his community shined through his volunteer work with voter registration, helping empower others to exercise their rights and participate in democracy. More than anything, Billy cherished spending time with his family, who will remember him as a Godly, outgoing, and optimistic man—a loving family man through and through.
Billy leaves behind a cherished circle of family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Debra Howell; children, Brian Howell (Christi), and Paige Hermes (Nathan); his grandchildren, Preston (Ariana), Cooper and Maddy (Jared); his sister, Kathy Lehning; his brother-in-law, Steve Drinnen; and several nieces, nephews, and aunts and uncles also survive him.
Billy was preceded in death by his mother, Sharon DeGarmo; his mother-in-law, Imogene Drinnen; his father-in-law, Bill Drinnen; siblings, Orval Howell, Debbie Sizemore, Sharon Lee (Midge) DeGarmo, and Richard DeGarmo.
Visitation will be from 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm, Wednesday, January 28, 2026; Funeral Service will be at 10:00 am, Thursday, January 29, 2026, both at Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Wounded Warriors Project, an organization dear to Billy’s heart. Through his life’s journey, Billy Wayne Howell exemplified a spirit of generosity, loving kindness, and unwavering faith. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Services
Visitation: Wednesday, January 28, 2026 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Downing & Lahey East Mortuary
6555 E. Central
Wichita, KS 67206
Funeral Service: Thursday, January 29, 2026 10:00 am
Downing & Lahey East Mortuary
6555 E. Central
Wichita, KS 67206
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Billy Wayne Howell 's name.
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Billy was a great guy to work with in Kinston on the Airbus airframe. I had just retired from civil service and it was interesting to work in private industry. Billy was a very good at his management of the group and understood a lot about the challenges working with a different company. I continued to tease him about singing the Oscar Meyer wiener song all the time after our paths diverged. My sincere condolences to Debbie, Brian, and Paige.
Billy was a great guy to work with. He will be missed. Prayers to his family and friends.
Thanks for the fantastic example of how to face challenges and get people to work together to solve problems.
My condolences to his family and friends.
I work with Billy at Boeing and Spirit while part of the M.E group. I am so sorry to hear of his passing and offer my prayers to his family. I will miss him.
I am very sad to hear that Billy left us.
He was my manager during few years but he was also a friend, funny, always taking care to each other.
Very funny, he was speaking sometimes his own language. “Aïe Caramba”, “Easy peasy”, and obviously “Hello My Friend” was some his favorite expressions.
I will miss him.
My sincere condoléances to Debbie and their family.
Thank you Ludovic. He always loved working with you.
So sorry to hear Billy’s passing. I worked with him for many years at Boeing/Spirit. Billy, im sure you will be missed. You are an incredible guy. You’re passed into the hands of Jesus. Your work here was over. Its not goodbye but see you later.
Billie was a devoted father, loving husband, and a steady presence in the lives of all who knew him. He carried a quiet strength and a generous heart, always placing his family and loved ones at the center of his world.
He was not only a family man, but a family member to many—offering guidance, laughter, and unwavering support to friends, neighbors, and anyone who found their way into his circle. His kindness was felt in simple acts and sincere conversations, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him.
Billies legacy will most certainly live on through the love he shared, the lessons he taught, and the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.