Donald Powell Obituary

Don passed peacefully on February 15, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on March 6, 1934, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, he lived a long and faithful life defined by devotion to his family and, most especially, to his beloved wife of 69 years, Barbara. Their marriage was a true partnership and a beautiful love story. In his final moments, Barbara held him as he took his last breaths, just as she had held his heart for nearly seven decades.

He was a man deeply dedicated to his church as his faith was the quiet anchor of his life. It guided his decisions, shaped his character, and sustained him through every season. He loved the Lord wholeheartedly and lived out that faith daily through kindness, steadiness, and unwavering love for those around him. He had a servant's heart and was generous beyond measure, always helping others selflessly.

As an educator, Don devoted 30 years to public education, serving as both teacher and principal in Michigan and South Carolina. He was a true jack of all trades, able to build or repair just about anything. If something was broken, he could fix it with ingenuity and patience.

He was welcomed into Heaven by his parents, Jack and Helen Powell; his brother, Ted Powell; and his sisters, Margaret Martin and Gwen Elbert. His beloved grandchildren, Kristen Blatchford and Brandon Powell, were surely waiting to wrap their arms around their Papa once again.

Family gatherings were never quiet. He and his siblings shared a deep love of music, and time together often turned into joyful sing-alongs filled with harmonies, guitar, piano, and cello. Those moments remain some of the sweetest memories for all who were blessed to be there.

In his later years, his focus turned especially to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We often referred to him as "the baby whisperer," as he loved to hold, rock, and sing to the newest members of the family.

Above all else, he loved his family. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Barbara; his children, David (Marilee), Dottie (Frank), and Donna (Gary); six grandchildren, Nathan (Kate), Katie, Kelly (Austin), Karlie (Josh), Jonathon, and David; and ten precious great-grandchildren: Lila, Grace, Hudson, Maddox, Emerson, Rowan, Remy, Chandler, Lindsey, and Leighton. He is also survived by his loving brother, Jim (Patty), along with many nieces and nephews. Each carries forward pieces of his strength, his humor, his faith, and his steady love.

A service to celebrate his life will be held on March 7 at 11:00 a.m. at Summerville Presbyterian Church.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23

A life well lived.

A love well kept.

A faith now made sight.