William Joseph Howley

William "Bill" Howley, cherished by all who knew him, was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather (and great-grandfather!). Bill was born on January 25, 1950, to his parents, Dorothy (Douds) Howley and Joseph Clare Howley. His grandfather and namesake, William J. Howley, was a member of the original Tin Mill Gang.

He was a 1968 graduate of New Castle High School, where he lettered in both football and basketball, notably as number 99, split end, and was a member of the 1967 W.P.I.A.L. championship team. He continued his education at Slippery Rock University, where he also played football. In 1970, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. Serving from 1971 - 1972 at Phan Rang U.S. Air Force Base, Vietnam. He was a member of the Panther Security Squadron of the 315 Tactical Air Group, a specialized, trained unit that provided security only at night during the most dangerous times. He completed his education at Slippery Rock University and began his career in education. He was a beloved history teacher at New Castle Youth Development Center, and was a dedicated football coach at Union High School, and a basketball coach at Frew Mill School.

After retiring, his life as a cross-country motorcyclist truly took off. A devoted husband, Bill embarked on many road trips across the United States with his wife and best friend, Kathy, who held on tight behind him. They embraced life and lived it fully. Bill was also a member of the Patriot Guard Riders. He and his wife participated in many local and statewide motorcycle escorts whose mission was to ensure dignity and respect at veterans' memorial services.

Bill was known for always showing up, usually in the family van, for anyone who needed him, regardless of the time or day. He did this with unwavering loyalty and compassion. He readily offered kindness, selflessness, and wisdom to many people. He never hesitated to help someone in need. He had an avid interest in African-American history. Bill also manned the grill at all the family gatherings, and gladly attended every milestone in the lives of his loved ones. He liked following politics and was a big fan of characters such as James Bond and Leroy Jethro Gibbs. He enjoyed watching sports with his kids and attended countless sporting events to cheer them on. He counted the birth of his children, Michelle and JC, as two of the greatest days of his life.

He was a steadying presence of calm and grace for the family-a quiet, gentle, unwavering constant. For example, he once said that one of the honors of his life was helping his son, Chris, recover after his accident. This calm was often balanced by the fieryness of his wife. He spent his lifetime inspiring those around him to live with patience and empathy, to value the importance of education, and to recognize the power of knowledge. He was always proud when his family used their voices meaningfully and voted according to their conscience. He instilled this philosophy in his children, and that is the greatest legacy a man can leave behind. His influence and example are embodied in us and will continue to live on.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy (Alberico) Howley; sister Kathleen Howley Eckelberger (Jim Eckelberger); brother George Howley (K.C. Howley); and children J.C. Howley, Michelle Howley, Bruce Niles, Jeff Niles, Leighann Niles, Chris Niles, and Adam Niles. His grandchildren, Jeffrey "JJ" Niles, Emily Reino, Corey Niles, Bruce Niles, Christopher Niles, Braden Niles, Olivia "Liv" DeLorenzo, Michael Niles, Isabella Niles, and his great-grandson, Matthew "Matty" Reino. His nieces, Leah Eckelberger and Erin (Howley) Loesley. His nephews, Todd Eckelberger, Michael Howley, Chad Von Eck, and Brian Howley. All of whom miss him dearly. His warmth and generosity remain deeply felt by those he impacted throughout his wonderful life.

Visitation will be held Tuesday (4-28-2026) at J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home, 111 West Falls St., New Castle, PA, from 4:00 - 6:00 pm, with service immediately following.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 111 W. Falls Street, New Castle.