Obituary of Evan Bruce Howell

Evan Bruce Howell, 66, passed away peacefully at his home on March 29th, 2025. Born on December 20th, 1958, at Warren Hospital, he was the beloved son of Irene Howell and the late Evan Howell. A lifelong resident of Washington, New Jersey, Evan graduated from Warren Hills Regional High School in 1977 before earning his bachelor’s degree in finance from Moravian University.

In 1982, Evan joined the Washington Township Volunteer Fire Company, where he faithfully served for decades, holding the role of secretary. His dedication to the community continued in 1984 when he began working for Washington Township, first as an assistant to the Tax Collector and later becoming the full-time Tax Collector for over 30 years. He also worked for the Knowlton Township Tax Office. Known for his quiet demeanor and sharp intellect, Evan was admired by coworkers and played a pivotal role in modernizing township offices from paper ledgers to digital systems.

Evan was a member of Masonic Lodge 36, following in his father’s footsteps. He was an animal lover and cherished his dog, Riker. Evan also enjoyed collecting tropical fish throughout his life time and always had a beautiful aquarium at home. His favorite place was Long Beach Island, where he would relax on the beach, a good book in hand, enjoying the sun and watching the waves roll in.

Evan is survived by his loving mother, Irene Howell; his uncle and aunt, George and Jeanie Melroy. He is predeceased by his father, Evan Howell, and his brother, Richard Howell.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Evan’s memory to Common Sense for Animals, PO Box 589, Broadway, New Jersey 08808.

A Memorial Service of Remembrance will be held at Knoll-DeVoe Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 142 West Washington Avenue, Washington, New Jersey 07882, on Sunday, April 6th, 2025, at 3 PM. Friends and neighbors are invited to gather between 2:30 and 3 PM, with the service beginning promptly at 3 PM.