Howell is a surname and given name with Welsh origins, stemming from the Welsh name Hywel, meaning "eminent" or "prominent." The name has historical significance, originating from a dynasty of kings in Wales and Brittany in the 9th and 10th centuries, notably King Hywel Dda ("Howel the Good"). The royal House of Tudor also descended from this lineage. Today, nearly 200,000 people bear the Howell surname. After the English Conquest of Wales in the 13th century, many Howells migrated into Western England and anglicized their surnames. The name also spread through English colonialism and the British Empire, with descendants found across the world, particularly in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Notable individuals with the Howell surname include authors, athletes, politicians, actors, and more. As of 2014, over 74.0% of Howell surname bearers were residents of the United States, with significant populations in the British Isles, Australia, Canada, and other countries.

Howell Hiram Raines is an American journalist, editor, and writer, known for his executive editorship at The New York Times from 2001 to 2003, which ended amidst the Jayson Blair reporting scandal. Raines began his journalism career in Southern newspapers before joining The Times in 1978. His roles included national correspondent, bureau chief in Atlanta and Washington, DC, political correspondent, and editorial page editor. Raines' editorial style was marked by its aggressive and colloquial tone, drawing both notice and criticism. However, his tenure as executive editor was marred by the Jayson Blair scandal, leading to his dismissal. Raines' resignation and that of managing editor Gerald Boyd were announced in 2003, with Joseph Lelyveld serving as an interim replacement. In his later activities, Raines reflected on his time at The Times in a lengthy piece published in The Atlantic. He also became a contributing editor for Condé Nast Portfolio, writing the magazine's media column. Additionally, Raines has published a novel, two memoirs, an oral history of the civil rights movement, and a history of Union soldiers from Alabama who played a decisive role in the Civil War.

Howell Binkley (July 25, 1956 – August 14, 2020) was a renowned American lighting designer known for his exceptional work in modern dance and musical theatre. Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Binkley's passion for theatre was ignited during his teenage years, leading him to pursue a career in lighting design. He attended East Carolina University and later worked with The Acting Company, ultimately achieving great success in the industry.Binkley's remarkable career included collaborations with prominent figures such as the Paul Taylor Dance Company and David Parsons. He made his Broadway debut with "Kiss of the Spider Woman" in 1993, earning his first Tony Award nomination. Throughout his career, Binkley designed lighting for 52 Broadway shows and received nine Tony Award nominations.Known for his dynamic use of color and ability to synchronize light with music and dance, Binkley's work left a lasting impact on the industry. He passed away in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of innovative lighting design. His contributions were commemorated by lighting equipment manufacturer Rosco Laboratories, who renamed a gobo in his honor. Howell Binkley's influence continues to be celebrated and remembered in the world of theatre and beyond.

Howell Tatum (died 1822) was a prominent figure in American history, known for his service as a justice of the Tennessee Supreme Court and his military contributions during the American Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Originally from North Carolina, Tatum distinguished himself as a soldier, serving as an ensign in the First North Carolina Regiment, Continental Line, in 1775. In the late 1780s or early 1790s, he relocated to Tennessee, where he played significant roles in the Mero District, including serving as treasurer and later as Attorney General. Tatum's legal acumen led to his appointment to the state supreme court in 1797, a position he held until 1798. Furthermore, his involvement as a topographical engineer during the War of 1812 showcased his dedication to his country. Tatum's legacy lives on, and he was laid to rest with full military honors on September 9, 1822.

Howell Webster Melton Sr. was an influential American lawyer and United States district judge of the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Melton graduated from the University of Florida and later attended the Fredric G. Levin College of Law, earning his Juris Doctor. His commendable service in the United States Army during World War II and as a 1st lieutenant in the Judge Advocate General's Corps earned him respect and recognition. Melton's legal career included private practice in St. Augustine, Florida, and a role as a county attorney for St. Johns County. His dedication and expertise led to his appointment as a circuit judge of the 7th Judicial Circuit of Florida, where he served until 1977.Melton's contributions extended to federal judicial service when President Jimmy Carter nominated him to the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida. Throughout his esteemed career, Melton's legacy was complemented by his commitment to public service and his notable impact in the legal realm. His profound influence continues through his son, Howell W. Melton Jr., a retired attorney formerly with Holland & Knight. Howell Webster Melton Sr.'s admirable journey and significant contributions will be remembered as an integral part of American legal history.