James “JD” Howell, age 54, of Wilmington, DE, passed away on September 16, 2021. Born in 1966 in Oxford, PA, he was the only child of Eleanor McNatt Howell and James L. Howell. JD’s family moved to Marshallton, DE, when he was young, and he grew up to become a larger-than-life figure, known by many names such as Chief, Bubba, Towhead, or Big Jim. However, his favorite roles were those of Husband and Dad.

JD graduated from Thomas McKean High School and developed a strong work ethic early on while working at Carousel Stables, which his mother managed before it became a County Park. He also worked on several family farms. His upbringing, which emphasized hard work and dedication, prepared him well for a career in heavy equipment operations and the fire service.

Following his family’s legacy in the fire service, JD joined the Mill Creek Fire Company at age 15 as an “Explorer.” Throughout his lifetime of service, he held various positions at Mill Creek Fire Company, mentoring and training new members, including the “First Due Crew.” JD volunteered as an Emergency Medical Technician, serving on the community ambulance and as an Ambulance Lieutenant. His dedication earned him numerous accolades, including the 1994 “Heroic Fireman of the Year Award” from the New Castle County Volunteer Firefighter’s Association and the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Association. He also served as an Assistant Instructor at the Delaware State Fire School and held Life Memberships at both Mill Creek Fire Company and Hockessin Fire Company.

JD was often in the right place at the right time, making a significant impact in critical situations. Notably, he was part of the Mill Creek Fire Company ambulance team that provided lifesaving treatment to now U.S. President Joseph R. Biden during a snowstorm. Senator Biden was so grateful for the team’s skill and dedication in getting him to Walter Reed Medical Center that the crew received a personal thank you.

JD served as a Chief Officer of Mill Creek Fire Company for fifteen years, including three years as Fire Chief. He respected those who disagreed with him, understanding that everyone’s shared goal was to serve the community. JD stepped down as Chief in 2008 to focus on his family after the birth of his son, Gage, the light of his life. JD was proud and grateful to be confirmed in the Catholic faith at Resurrection Parish at the same time Gage was baptized.

Despite facing complex medical challenges, JD completed Del Tech’s rigorous phlebotomy program in 2010. His illness in the last decade of his life raised awareness of the importance of handicap accessibility in all areas of the community. JD enjoyed spending time courtside at Blue Coats basketball games with his wife, Mary, and son, Gage, and working out, when able, at Nutrition and Exercise Concepts.

JD was predeceased by his parents and is survived by his wife of 23 years, Mary (Budd) Howell, his son Gage Nathan, and a large extended family.