Bob Howell Obituary: Remembering a Montgomery News Icon and Beloved WSFA Anchor
The city of Montgomery, Alabama, and the broader journalism community are mourning the loss of one of its most trusted voices. Bob Howell, longtime news anchor at WSFA 12 News, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy defined by professionalism, dedication, and a genuine warmth that resonated with both colleagues and viewers alike.
For decades, Bob Howell was a fixture in living rooms across central and south Alabama. His calm, authoritative voice and steady presence helped guide countless residents through everything from everyday headlines to moments of crisis. Whether he was reporting on local developments, breaking news, or community celebrations, Bob approached every story with the same unwavering commitment to truth and service.
A Career Rooted in Integrity
Bob’s career in broadcasting spanned several decades, and he spent the majority of that time at WSFA, Montgomery’s NBC affiliate. He was more than just a news anchor—he was a trusted community figure. Viewers knew they could rely on him to deliver the news with fairness, clarity, and care. He understood the responsibility that came with his role and never took it lightly.
Colleagues at WSFA remember Bob as not only an accomplished journalist but also a mentor and friend. He was known in the newsroom for his meticulous attention to detail, his unshakable ethics, and his kind, approachable nature. Many young reporters got their start under Bob’s guidance, and countless others credit him with helping shape their careers in journalism.
A Personal Impact
Following news of his passing, tributes poured in from former coworkers, community leaders, and longtime viewers. Across social media platforms, people shared memories of watching Bob on the evening news with their families, meeting him at community events, or working alongside him in the fast-paced world of local journalism.
One former colleague wrote, “Bob Howell wasn’t just the face of WSFA—he was the heart of it. He showed us what it means to be a journalist with honor and a person with compassion.”
Another noted, “Bob had a way of making everyone feel seen and heard, whether you were sitting next to him at the news desk or meeting him for the first time at a community fundraiser. He always made time for people.”
Community Mourning
Bob Howell’s death has left a significant void in Montgomery and throughout Alabama. WSFA viewers had come to know him not only as a news anchor but as a steady presence in their daily lives. His passing has sparked a profound sense of loss—one that speaks to the deep connection he formed with the community over so many years.
In response to his death, WSFA released a statement, honoring Bob’s service and legacy. The station referred to him as “a cornerstone of Alabama journalism,” and “a man whose dedication to truth and community set the standard for what it means to be a broadcast journalist.”
A Life of Service
Outside of the newsroom, Bob was known for his involvement in community events, local charities, and causes close to his heart. He understood that journalism didn’t end at the anchor desk—it extended into the streets, the schools, and the neighborhoods he served. His integrity and compassion made him not only a respected journalist but also a beloved community member.
Final Thoughts
Bob Howell’s legacy is etched not only in the archives of WSFA broadcasts but also in the lives of those he touched. He was a mentor, a role model, a neighbor, and a friend. In an era where trust in media is more important than ever, Bob stood as a beacon of credibility and sincerity.
He is survived by his family, friends, former colleagues, and the vast community that came to know and love him through his work. As Montgomery grieves, we also celebrate the extraordinary life of a man who dedicated his career to informing, uplifting, and serving others.
Rest in peace, Bob Howell. Your voice may be silenced, but your impact will continue to echo for generations to come.
