William Earl Nowell, age 72, of Littleton, died Tuesday morning, February 14, 2017 surrounded by his loving family.

William was a native of Weldon and was the son of the late William Herbert and Hattie Elizabeth Williams Nowell. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Sherry Nowell King, and his sister, Geraldine Lee.

William served his country in the United States Navy and the United States Coast Guard for ten years each, retiring in 1982. He worked for several years with New Dixie Marts.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Bobbie Vaughan Nowell; his daughters, Chris Wood and her husband, Ken, of Roanoke Rapids, Bobbie Sue Hux and her husband, Ken, of Littleton; his son, William “Bill” Nowell and his wife, Lisa, of Roanoke Rapids; his brother, Wayne Nowell of Roanoke Rapids; grandchildren, Timmy Godsey, David King, Christopher Nowell, Stewart King, Jr., Stephanie St. Clair, Ashley Nowell Bennett, Zachary Horvath, Casey Hux, Tyler Wood, Megan Nowell and Mackenzie Wood; great-grandchildren, Timothy Allen Godsey, Braxton Bennett, Hailey St. Clair, Landen Nowell, Matilyn Bennett and Emma St. Clair.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 17, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Askew Funeral and Cremation Services with Rev. Randy Martin officiating.

Interment will follow at Cedarwood Cemetery in Roanoke Rapids with Military Honors.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 16, 2017 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home.