New Orleans Priest Accused of Abuse Dies After Fall; Archdiocese Knew Allegations for 40 Years

Gerard Joseph “Jerry” Howell, an 87-year-old former New Orleans priest, died following an apparent fall in his Texas apartment. The Austin Police Department responded to a welfare check at the senior living community where Howell resided, finding him deceased at the scene. The medical examiner’s office confirmed that the death was not being investigated as a homicide.

For over four decades, the New Orleans Roman Catholic archdiocese was aware of allegations against Howell involving sexual abuse of children within the local deaf community. Despite this knowledge, the archdiocese continued to support Howell, maintaining his status as an active priest even after he was reported to law enforcement in 1980 and publicly exposed by WWL Louisiana in 1992. He received retirement benefits until at least 2020.

The archdiocese updated their webpage, which lists clergy removed from ministry due to abuse, to mark Howell as deceased following the confirmation of his death. Kathleen Austin, a survivor of Howell’s abuse, expressed relief at his passing, noting that he would no longer be able to harm others.

This case highlights significant issues of accountability within religious institutions, emphasizing the need for justice and care for victims. As Micah 6:8 reminds us, acting justly and loving mercy are central to addressing such profound moral failings.

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