William Earl Howton, 71, of Madisonville, KY, passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at his home.

He was born on November 18, 1954, in Madisonville, KY, to the late Mary Gunther Howton and William Audrey Howton. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and listening to music and fishing.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Judith Howton; two sisters, Sandy Vannoy and Joyce Doss; one brother, Larry Howton.

His survivors include his four children, Amy Jo (Chris) Sherman, Darick Howton, William Coby (Michelle) Howton, and Jeremy (Allison) Howton, all of Madisonville; sisters, Rhonda (Billy) Wall and Mary Knight, both of Madisonville, and Barbara Wall of Dawson Springs, KY; grandchildren, Hali Almon, Cassie (SaDarius) Mackey, Jerrick Almon, Kyiah Howton, Harper Howton, Kamden Howton, and Kashten Howton; great-grandchildren, Adrian Clemmons, Hazel Mackey, Makenna Mackey, Aniya (Niya Jax) Clemmons, Emmett Mackey, and Nova Almon; uncle, Norman Gunther of Holden Beach, NC; and several nieces and nephews.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Harris Funeral Home was entrusted with care.