November 15, 2025, 84, Grantham —
Elgie Gray Barefoot Howell, age 84 of the Grantham Community and a cherished mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Wayne UNC Healthcare in Goldsboro.
Born in Johnston County, Elgie was the daughter of the late Nogah Barefoot and Minnie Holley Barefoot. She dedicated many years of service as a Dietary Supervisor before retiring from Johnston Memorial Hospital. Ms. Elgie attended Selah Christian Church, where she found great fellowship and spiritual comfort.
Elgie’s heart belonged to her family and her home. She was known for her love of cooking, and was particularly famous for her collards, always ensuring every dish was prepared with immense care and love. She found great joy in simple pleasures: spending time with her family, celebrating the Lord, and sharing moments with her dear friends.
Ms. Elgie is survived by her loving daughter and son-in-law, Patsy and Ronnie Keene of Mount Olive; her brother, Bobby Barefoot of Goldsboro; and her sister, Wilma Lee Howell of Mount Olive.
Also she leaves behind very special and dear friends, Angie Underwood, Shelia Mozingo, Kenneth and Vicky Sanderson, Janice and Doodle Edwards, along with Annette and Alan Weaver, who brought light and joy into her life, and was always there to help when needed.
In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Willie Roger Howell, Son, Roger Edward Howell and her siblings: Ralph Mae Barefoot, Doris Faye Bizzell, Betty Lou Barefoot, and Shirley Jernigan.
A graveside funeral service will be held for family and friends on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Selah Christian Church Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be directed to the American Cancer Society or Operation Blessing (The 700 Club).
Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to be serving the Howell family.
