Bowling Green, KY Mourns the Loss of Larry Caldwell Howlett

Bowling Green, KY Mourns the Loss of Larry Caldwell Howlett

The city of Bowling Green, Kentucky, is in mourning after the passing of Larry Caldwell Howlett, who died at his home on August 31, 2024, at the age of 81. Larry was a well-known figure in the community, leaving behind a legacy of service and love for his family and local organizations.

A Life Well-Lived

Born on November 19, 1942, in Auburn, Kentucky, Larry was the son of William Caldwell and Nellie Rufine (McLellan) Howlett. His early education took place at Auburn public schools. Later, he transferred to Columbia Military Academy in Columbia, Tennessee, where he completed his high school education. Larry then attended the University of Kentucky for a year before moving to Western Kentucky State College, where he became part of the inaugural class of the college’s accounting program. He graduated in 1964.

A Career in Service

After college, Larry worked in his family’s leather tanning business for a few years before shifting his focus to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), where he dedicated himself to tax-exempt organizations. His career at the IRS lasted thirty years, during which he became an expert in his field.

Upon retiring, Larry founded Larry C. Howlett CPA, a firm focused on helping not-for-profit organizations navigate their financial responsibilities. His contributions to local and national organizations were numerous, reflecting his commitment to service and community support. Larry’s deep love for the Lord was evident in both his professional and personal life, demonstrating that he was not only skilled in his field but also had a tremendous faith that inspired those around him.

A Beloved Community Member

Despite his smaller stature, Larry was regarded as a giant in his faith. He was known for offering a warm “Greetings” to everyone he met and showed kindness to all he encountered. Throughout his life, Larry served in several churches in various capacities, including elder and deacon roles, and he taught Sunday school. He volunteered in numerous ministries, generously sharing his resources to support others.

His final church membership was at Eastwood Baptist Church, where many members found inspiration in his unwavering faith and kindness.

Family and Legacy

In nearly 59 years of marriage, Larry and his beloved wife, Edessa Howlett, raised two daughters, Tina (Jeff) Carter and Laura (Kent) Coughlin. He was known as “Papa” to five grandchildren and two great-grandsons, Lincoln and Roman Carter. His devotion to his family was evident, and he was cherished by them as well as a wide circle of friends.

Sadly, Larry is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Bill and Joe Howlett, and one cherished grandson, Robert Coughlin. Despite this loss, his impact on his family and community will undoubtedly continue to resonate.

Final Arrangements

Visitation for friends and family will be held on Friday, September 6, from 5-7 p.m. and again on Saturday, September 7, at 10:00 a.m. at Eastwood Baptist Church. A service will commence at 11:00 a.m., followed by burial services in his hometown of Auburn, Kentucky.

In a special tribute to Larry, those who have been part of a ministry or not-for-profit organization he helped to organize are encouraged to wear a T-shirt, button, or any item that signifies an association with those organizations.

Remembering Larry

In lieu of flowers, Larry requested donations be made to several organizations close to his heart, including Hope House, HOTEL Inc., Curbside, and Hospice of Southern Kentucky. These contributions will carry forward his legacy of helping those in need.

As Bowling Green and surrounding communities grieve the loss of Larry Caldwell Howlett, his spirit of service and genuine kindness will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.