Leon Rankin Howell

Leon Rankin Howell, 77, of Nokesville, Virginia, passed away peacefully in the early hours of November 20, 2024, after a courageous six-year battle with Alzheimer's dementia, primarily the rare variant known as Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA). Born on February 26, 1947, in Charles Town, West Virginia, Leon was the third child of Rosie May Rankin and Robert Matthew Howell. He spent his childhood exploring the outdoors, often wandering the streets until dark, playing ball with his sister Katie and friends. It was during these early years that he met his lifelong love, Marie Phipps. Leon was drafted into the U.S. Army in June 1966 and married Marie on June 3, just before leaving for boot camp. He served with distinction in the 2nd Infantry Division, stationed at the Korean DMZ, and later at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where he was a Military Police Officer. He was honorably discharged in 1970. In 1971, Leon began a remarkable 47-year career with NOVEC, where he forged lifelong friendships and cherished memories, including a memorable cross-country adventure with his work buddies. Leon was a true outdoorsman who found joy in hunting, fishing, hiking, and the serenity of nature. A car enthusiast and motorbike racer, he owned several classic muscle cars, including a Nova Super Sport, Plymouth Roadrunner, Corvettes, and a '57 Chevy. Leon had a knack for taking in wild animals, transforming his backyard into a haven for squirrels, raccoons, and even a pet skunk named Pogo. His family fondly recalls him building a home for squirrels outside the kitchen window and raising peacocks, pigeons, ducks, and geese. Family was at the heart of Leon’s life. He loved weekend camping trips, nature walks, swimming, and motorboating at Fairview Beach on the Potomac River. Late-night card games at Katie’s house and family BBQs and weenie roasts were traditions he cherished. As a proud “Pawpaw,” Leon adored his grandchildren, delighting in giving them tractor and wagon rides or cruising with them in one of his classic cars. Leon is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Rosie, and his brothers, Richard and Rufus. He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Marie; his siblings, Junior, Katie, and David; his children, Angie (Keith), Anthony (Jeannie), Robert (Jennifer), and Tim; his grandchildren, Nicholas, Ethan (Star), Christen, Joe, Wyatt, Nate, Gabe, Lauren, and A.J.; and his great-grandchildren, Luna, Terra, and Timmy. Leon’s legacy of love, adventure, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the National Aphasia Association in Leon’s memory.

Leon Rankin Howell

February 26, 1947 - November 20, 2024