My close friend Bud Howell, a naturalist, activist, teacher, long-distance-walker, artist and longtime Asheville resident, died on July 10. Over the last decade in our community, this man brought his passion and dedication to The Asheville Global Report, Wild South and The Dogwood Alliance. He penned many poignant letters to the editor to Xpress, as well as other publications.
Bud’s strong and broad network of friends will remember his acerbic wit, epic adventures, creative capers, political prowess and unfaltering love for the natural world, specifically the Terrapene carolina carolina, the Eastern box turtle. Bud, aged 37, will be greatly missed by the people, animals and untamed, uncharted land he left behind.
In face of the passing of such a brilliant man, I encourage each of you to consider Bud’s example: get outside, fortify your community, raise hell, foster an animal, laugh loudly, humble yourself, open your heart, go to the ends of the earth, pay attention and speak up. Of course, “If you see Carl Mumpower circling around your neighborhood, call the police.”
For those who are moved, donations in Bud's name are being accepted at Wild South, as well as Turtle Dogs (care of John Rucker), which was the focus of Bud’s work life over the past year.
— Rodger Preston
Asheville
Bud was a caring, intelligent, and committed person that I looked up to. We’re saddened by his passing, but richer for what he left with us.