Howlett, Oshiar Clyte

Oshiar Clyte Howlett passed away at his home in Radford, Va., on Wednesday, December 6, 2006, having been in declining health for a few years.

He was born in Hillsville, Va., October 6, 1919, to Lewis and Susie Quesinberry Howlett. Preceding him in death were his parents, his sister, Mabel Howlett Hill; brothers, Harless and Clyde Howlett. Survivors are his wife of 60 years, Elizabeth Allen Howlett; sons and daughters-in-law, David and Robin Howlett of Raleigh, N.C., and Terry and Nina Howlett of Tyler, Texas. Grandchildren surviving are Brooke Howlett Hayward and husband Ryan of Wickenburg, Ariz., Joshua Howlett and fianc?e Jenny Zimmer, Mansfield, Ohio, Mandi Howlett, Raleigh, N.C. and Evan Howlett, Tyler, Texas. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Mr. Howlett had a strong faith in God and was a member of First Baptist Church, Radford, Va., The Roanoke Valley Chapter of Ex-Pows of America, VFW Post #1115, Hillsville, Va. Mr. Howlett participated in the invasion of North Africa during World War II with the 34th Division 168th Infantry. He was captured at Faid Pass on February 17, 1943 by General Rommel’s troops. The German General spoke to them in perfect English saying, “You will regret the day you were born”. Mr. Howlett was a POW for 26 months, almost losing hope in December 1944 when the captors told them America was losing the war and they fought to keep from believing they would never go home again. He spent time as a prisoner in Italy and at Stalag 118, Germany. He escaped, was recaptured, and later successfully escaped from a 3-month road march in the spring of 1945, reaching the Americans on April 13, 1945.

Mr. Howlett was the owner/operator of Howlett’s Garage in Radford for 25 years and was a partner in The New River Valley Motors. In retirement he was known for creating and giving wooden craft items.

Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 9, 2006 with the service to follow at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church, Radford, Va. Dr. Paul Lane, Pastor, will conduct the service followed by interment between 1 and 1:30 p.m. at The Wilkinson Cemetery, Hillsville, Va., with a military service by VFW Post #1115. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Mr. Howlett to the Memorial Fund, First Baptist Church, 3rd Ave. & Downey St., Radford, Va. 24141, or The American Heart Association. DeVilbiss Funeral Home of Radford is handling arrangements. For information, phone (540) 639-2422.