Mr. James Nathaniel Howell, 88, of Shelby, transitioned from this life to his heavenly life on Saturday, January 12, 2013 at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, NC.  He was born on July 31, 1924 in Cleveland County to the late James Ausborne Howell and Fuller Brooks Howell.

During his earlier life, James was a carpenter by trade.  Later on in life, he was employed by Carolina Freight in Cherryville, NC where he retired after 34 years of service.  James was a U.S. Army Veteran of World War II.

James was a member of Washington Missionary Baptist Church during his earlier life but, joined Rudisill Chapel AME Zion Church later on where he was a faithful member.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wives, Jennie Mae Thomas Howell and Hazel McKinney Howell; a sister, Annie H. Wilson and six brothers, Plato Howell, Rev. Ausborne Howell, Arborne Howell, Dorse Howell, Rev. Willie Howell and Carl Howell.

He is survived by two sons, James Walter Howell (Charita) of Cherryville and Charles Nathaniel Howell (Madeline) both of Cherryville; one daughter, Dotha Ann Howell of Gastonia, NC; four beloved grandchildren, Mrs. Tia Howell-Williams (Clark) of Carrboro, NC, Ms. Nicole Howell, Mr. James Eric Howell and Ms. Kayla Howell all of Cherryville; three wonderful great-grandchildren, Natrice Fox, Victoria Fox and David Howell; three sisters-in-law, Mary Sue Howell and Dolleta Howell both of Shelby and Sarah Howell of Greensboro, NC and a host of relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 2:00 PM at First Baptist Church in Cherryville with Rev. Amanda Anderson officiating.  Burial will take place at Cherryville City Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 PM at the church on Friday and at other times at the home of his son, James W. Howell, 742 Old Stubbs Rd. Cherryville.  Condolences can be expressed online at www.enloes.net.  Enloe Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements.