James “Jim” Edward Howie, age 75, of Albia, IA, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Oakwood Specialty Care in Albia, surrounded by his loved ones.
Jim was born in Albia, IA, on April 23, 1950, to Joseph Edward and Olive Marie (Lord) Howie. He grew up attending school and graduated from Albia High School with the Class of 1968. On November 28, 1969, Jim was united in marriage to Viola Fern Bellon at the First Assemblies of God Church in Corydon, IA. Jim and Viola were blessed with 4 children, Chawn, Heather, James R. and Joshua, and shared 53 years of marriage prior to Viola’s passing on December 22, 2022.
Jim dedicated his career to Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad where he worked faithfully for 36 years before retiring. He began his career in the shop as a boiler maker/welder for several years before transitioning to conductor.
Jim was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting of all sorts but especially deer and turkey hunting and fishing. He was a fan of rock and roll music. Jim was a man of deep faith who loved God wholeheartedly. He had a great sense of humor with an infectious laugh and was affectionately referred to as a great big goofball by his grandchildren. He had a generous heart and was always willing to help anyone in need. Jim was especially proud of his 42 years of sobriety and remained a devoted and active member of AA for many years, encouraging others on their own paths to recovery. Above all else, Jim loved his family and cherished the time spent with them.
Jim is survived by four children, Chawn (Bret) Daniel of Bois D’arc, MO, Heather Burk of Albia, James R. (Loretta Hash) Howie of Springfield, MO, and Joshua Howie of Burlington, IA; 6 grandchildren, Caleb (Alicia) Underwood, Rachael Burk, Emily Underwood, Jacob Underwood, Laney Burk, and Alyssa Duke; 2 great grandchildren, Nadia Higeons-Vasquez and Theodore Underwood; 6 siblings, Bill (Vicki) Howie, Donna Wood, Dorothy Wagner, Mary Pepmeyer, John (Susan) Howie, and Larry Howie; and a sister-in-law, Cathy Howie. Jim is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Viola Fern Howie; his parents, Joseph and Olive Howie; 2 brothers, Bob Howie and Dick Howie; a sister, Sharon Howie; and a brother-in-law, Kevin Wood.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Jim’s family present to greet family and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia.
An open memorial has been established to the family.
