Howell was born in
Sumner, Georgia, the son of John and Allene Howell. He served in the
United States Navy. After his discharge, attended the
American Academy of Dramatic Arts, graduating in 1956. He began his screen career in 1961, appearing in the film
The Hustler. In the same year, he appeared in the film
Splendor in the Grass, and made his television debut in the
ABC situation comedy television series
The Hathaways. Later in his career, Howell guest-starred in numerous television programs including
The Andy Griffith Show (as
yokel Dud Wash),
Gunsmoke,
Columbo,
The Rookies, ''
McHale's Navy, The Jack Benny Program, Bonanza, The Dukes of Hazzard, Green Acres, Happy Days, The Virginian, Lost in Space and The Untouchables, He also appeared in numerous films such as Framed, Shenandoah, Slaughter's Big Rip-Off, The Sidehackers, The Last of the Secret Agents?, Another 48 Hrs., Humanoids from the Deep and The Glove''. Howell retired from acting in 1997, last appearing in the film
The Shooter. == Death ==