Demopolis High to close early Friday for funeral of junior Hunter Howell

Demopolis High School is closing early on Friday for the funeral of junior Hunter Bowen Howell who died in a car crash on Jan. 31.

In an announcement to students and parents, Demopolis High School says it will close at noon so staff and students can attend the funeral of Howell that starts with visitation at First Methodist Church of Demopolis at 12:30 p.m. The service is at 2 p.m. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Demopolis.

Howell, 17, was killed when his 2018 Chevrolet Silverado left the roadway, entered a ditch and struck a tree at 12:15 a.m. He was driving on Marengo County 44 near Marengo County 39, two miles south of Dayton, according to a Alabama Law Enforcement Agency report.

His published obituary says he was a member of SGA and the golf team and an avid lover of music. He moved to Demopolis two years ago, but "made a tremendous impact on those around him." 

"Hunter bravely endured three and a half years of treatment in his fight against leukemia. His strength, courage, and determination were an inspiration to all who knew him.

Hunter never met a stranger. Even if you did not know him, he had a way of making you feel welcomed and included. He could make friends with anyone and led with his heart. Hunter would do anything for a friend, family member, or person in need.

Hunter enjoyed hunting with his dad, spending time with friends, playing video games, and most of all, simply being around people. His warmth, kindness, and even his sarcasm will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him."

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to Children’s of Alabama in memory of Hunter at ChildrensAL.org/Donate or Bigbee Humane Society via PayPal (bigbeehumane@gmail.com).