FRANKLIN—Ernest Ray Howell, 85, died July 9, 2008.

He was born in Holland, a son of the late William H. and Clara Harrell Howell.

Mr. Howell was retired from Hercules where he was a chemical operator in the Tall Oil Division, and was a member of Hunterdale United Church of Christ.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Marion Porter Howell; one daughter, Carol Robin Bulls and husband, Al, of Sedley; one son, Carl Ray Howell of Suffolk; one sister, Elaine Gardner of Franklin; two grandchildren, Allie Raye Bulls and Jamie Bulls; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Monday at 7 p.m. at Wright Funeral Home with the Rev. Don Rosie officiating.

The family will receive friends following the service and suggests memorials be made to American Heart Association, Mid-Atlantic Affiliate, 4217 Park Place Ct., Glen Allen, Va. 23060-9979, or American Cancer Society, c/o Ms. Kathy Worrell, 717 Fairview Drive, Franklin, Va. 23851 or the Hunterdale Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad, c/o Jane Ferguson, 21005 Drake Road, Franklin, Va. 23851.

Condolences may be offered at www.wrightfuneralhome.org