Howell Barclay Fraser went home to be with the Lord, September 2, 2016. He was born to Dr. Don and Margaret Fraser, March 1, 1940 in Pensacola, Florida, but lived his life in Panama City, Florida. His parents preceded him in death.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 52 years, Linda Lee, sons, Lee and wife, Vickie of Cumming, Georgia, Alan and wife Pamela of Jacksonville, Florida. Also, surviving are grandchildren, Callie and Corban, Cumming, Georgia and Reagan and Anya, Jacksonville, Florida. Also, surviving are brother, Scotty Fraser and wife Marianne, Williamsburg, Virginia, brothers-in-law, Randall Ricketts, Lindale, Texas and Chip Ricketts and wife, Deedee, Highland Village, Texas. Also, several nieces and nephews.
Howell loved the Lord. He grew up in Wallace Memorial Presbyterian Church then became a Charter member of Grace Presbyterian Church, where he served as Elder and as Head Usher for almost 30 years. He also loved his family, golf and the LSU Tigers. Howell played for Bay High School Golf Team after which he received a full golf scholarship to LSU. His success there as an All-American/All SEC player led him to join the PGA Tour for almost seven years. In 1968 he won the inaugural PGA Club Professional Championship with a scoring record that has only been broken once in 48 years.
Returning to Panama City in 1972, Howell became the first golf professional at Bay Point Yacht and Country Club where he remained for almost ten years. After leaving Bay Point as a club pro, Howell and wife, Linda Lee, opened The Mole Hole gift shop for thirty-four years, retiring in March of this year. After turning fifty, Howell played Senior tournaments, as well as many on the Senior European Tour.
Howell was a gentle man and a gentleman who will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Grace Presbyterian Church, Wednesday, September 7, 2016 at 3:00, with visitation from 1:00-2:45. Because golf played such an important part of Howell's life, golf shirts will be the attire of the day.
Memorial donations may be made to Grace Presbyterian Church, Grace Cares Food Closet, or to the Salvation Army, Lafayette, Louisiana for flood relief.