Howell - Nancy Jane Howell, age 82, of Hilliard, Florida passed away peacefully August 8, 2022. She was born February 1, 1940, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Around the age of 12, her family moved to Jacksonville, Florida.  Nancy later met and married the love of her life, Jerry D. Howell. The two were married on April 11, 1972. She began her career working for American General and Gulf Life Insurance. Later Nancy worked for Dr. Bennett until his retirement, and with Dr. Day and Dr. Solomon. Although she had some health issues, she continued to be a very active lady. Nancy was constantly taking care of the needs of others. She was an amazing cook however her specialty was baking cakes, and they were always amazing! Nancy used to bake individual cakes for Jerry to take to work to all his workers for Christmas. She loved to garden, and canning was a joy for her. Her children remarked, "She was a Nancy of all trades!" So true! She was a wonderful wife, mother and Nanny and will truly be missed by all who loved her. Nancy also loved to paint and made sure that each of the children had one of her paintings. She was talented beyond her years. Nancy took up ceramics, crocheting, sewing, etc. She didn't understand the word stop, as she was constantly on the go doing something! Nancy and Jerry were faithful members of River Road Baptist Church.  She is preceded in death by two sons, Michael Collins and Richard Collins; and three sisters, Dot Pillsbury, Frances Swearingen and Cobby Bullock.

Nancy is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Jerry D. Howell; daughters, Beth (Alberto) Martinez of Jacksonville, FL and Christie (Gus) Stearn of Fernandina Beach, FL; daughters-in-law, Michelle Collins and Debbie Collins; grandchildren, Brandon Collins, Ashley (Langdon) Rawls, Paige Thrower, Luke Stearn, Chase O'Quinn, Tyler Collins and Craig (Sheri) Alack; great-grandchildren, Piper Tucker, Silas and Ana Jane Thrower; sister, Marie (Tommy) Smith; and numerous extended family members.

A Celebration of Nancy's Life will be held on Monday, August 15, 2022, at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Benjie Loyd officiating.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.  The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011, 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family's guest book.