Founder and Builder Jeff Howell earned his degree in Biochemistry from East Tennessee State University before launching his career with Eastman Chemical Company. While his background in science and engineering sharpened his analytical precision and systems-driven mindset, Jeff quickly realized his true calling was building — creating tangible legacies through craftsmanship and design.

Determined to merge engineering discipline with inspired construction, Jeff founded J.S. Howell Custom Homes with a clear vision: to build homes that reflect integrity, excellence, and purpose. He believes a home should not only be structurally exceptional, but deeply personal — a place where families build their own legacies.

Today, Jeff builds throughout East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, delivering custom residences defined by quality, transparency, and a seamless client experience.

With a foundation in leadership and discipline, Bekah Howell brings strategic oversight and client-focused excellence to J.S. Howell Custom Homes.

A graduate of Emory & Henry College with a master’s degree from East Tennessee State University, Bekah also earned national distinction by graduating in the top 10% of cadets from United States Army Officer School. She later built a high-performing career in medical device sales, where precision, integrity, and results were paramount.

At J.S. Howell Custom Homes, Bekah partners closely with clients from concept through early development, ensuring vision, budget, and execution remain aligned. Her structured approach, elevated communication, and commitment to excellence help deliver a building experience that is as refined as the homes themselves.

A lifelong East Tennessean, Bob Edwards brings a foundation of mechanical engineering and decades of senior leadership to high-end residential and complex construction projects. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (Honors) from the University of Tennessee and a Master of Strategic Studies from the Air War College.

Bob retired from Eastman Chemical Company after 31 years of service, where he served as a Group Leader and Capital Coordinator within the Technology Division. In this role, he managed multimillion-dollar budgets and led large-scale capital projects with uncompromising standards for quality and performance.

In parallel to his corporate career, Bob served 28 years in the Tennessee Air National Guard, retiring as a Colonel and Operations Group Commander. As a Desert Storm veteran, he brings proven leadership under pressure, accountability, and a meticulous attention to detail to every project he oversees.

Known for his integrity and calm leadership style, Bob ensures that each project is executed with precision, transparency, and deep respect for the client’s investment. He resides in Blountville with his wife of 37 years, Allison, and is an active member of Buffalo Ridge Baptist Church.

Born and raised in Boones Creek, Jacob Redman brings deep local roots and a refined, professional approach to every project he manages. A graduate of Daniel Boone High School and Tennessee Tech University with a degree in Agribusiness Management, Jacob combines hands-on experience with a strong operational and business foundation. 

With a career rooted in the landscape and agricultural industries, Jacob developed an early appreciation for precision, craftsmanship, and disciplined project execution. His background in the agricultural equipment sector further sharpened his expertise in logistics, systems, and client-focused service. In 2024, Jacob joined Jeff Howell Custom Homes as a Project Manager, where he plays a key role in delivering high-end custom homes with the attention to detail, quality, and timelines that discerning clients expect.

Jacob is married to his wife, Taylor, and together they are raising three children. They also share their home with two dogs. A lifelong member of the Boones Creek community, Jacob remains actively involved in his church and values the traditions of family, integrity, and hard work.

Outside of work, Jacob enjoys staying active, spending time outdoors, and traveling with his family. He values building meaningful relationships with both longtime locals and those relocating to East Tennessee, offering a level of trust, professionalism, and care that aligns seamlessly with the Jeff Howell Custom Homes brand.

Derick Miller brings a comprehensive, ground-up understanding of residential construction shaped by both structural design expertise and hands-on field experience.

Derick began his career in hardscape installation, spending four years crafting custom patios, retaining walls, and outdoor living environments. He later advanced into structural design and sales with Component Building Systems, specializing in truss systems. Most recently, he served as Project Manager for Egan Construction, where he focused on precision execution, operational efficiency, and delivering a refined client experience.

Beyond his professional background, Derick is deeply rooted in the Tri-Cities community. He actively coaches athletics at Tri-Cities Christian Academy and enjoys hunting and fishing throughout East Tennessee. Derick and his wife, Brittany—who serves in healthcare with Ballad Health—have been married for over a decade. They are currently raising their son and recently welcomed an international exchange student into their home, reflecting their shared commitment to mentorship and leadership.