Sidney Ray Howell, 71, of St. Marys, Georgia, passed away on Wednesday, September 2, 2026.

He was born in Fernandina Beach, Florida, on December 9, 1954, to the late Robert Howell and Nancy Odom Howell. Sidney was a lifelong lover of St. Marys and was raised in the community, from Bailey Street to Conyers Street. The city held a special place in his heart, and he was proud to call St. Marys home.

Sidney was devoted to his daughter and grandson, who brought great joy and pride to his life. He loved his country and was proud of his beliefs. He enjoyed camping, hunting, cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs, and entertaining friends. His beloved dog, “Dinky,” was also a cherished companion.

Sidney dedicated 29 years of his working life to Gilman Paper Company until its closing. His commitment to his community continued through his service on the St. Marys City Council, where he proudly served two terms. One of his proudest moments while serving on the council was making the motion to purchase the waterfront park, a decision that would leave a lasting mark on the community he loved so dearly.

Sidney will be remembered for his love of St. Marys, his devotion to his family, his loyalty to his country, and the many friendships he made throughout his life. His memory will live on in the hearts of his daughter, grandson, family, friends, and the community he was so proud to call home.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister: Linda White; and nephew: Jimmy Evans.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years: Rindy Howell; daughter: Gloria Howell Hill (Emily); grandson: Easton Hill; sister-in-law: Cindy Dixon (Lamarr); brothers-in-law: Bill Evatt (Toni), Steve Evatt (Linnea), and Bert Evatt (Vickie); and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives that loved and adored him.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 - 7:00 PM on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Shepard-Roberson Funeral Home - Camden Chapel located at 935 E. King Avenue, Kingsland, Georgia. A service will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Agapé Christian Fellowship with Martin Turner and Paul Hafer officiating. Burial will follow at Chester Cemetery in Yulee, Florida. Pallbearers will be Sidney's nephews: Eric, Kevin, Austin, Dyllin, Matt, Mark, Brian, Anthony, Blake, Cameron E., Steve, and Jeremiah. Honorary Pallbearers will be his lifelong friends: Pepper Kinsey, Gene Hollingsworth, Anthony Stubble, Mark Fautz, Avera Greene, Johnny Spangler, Jack Dickey, Greg Bird, Jeff Chapman, Mark Hernandez, Earl Strickland, Richard Bennett, and Joey Donini.