William Oliver Powell

William Oliver Powell, a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, stepfather and friend went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 24, 2013. William was born on July 23, 1941, to the late Deacon James E. and Deaconess Henrietta Johnson Powell in King William County. He is the sixth oldest of eleven children: four boys and seven girls. He received his early education at King William County Public Schools in King William, Virginia. William accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age, and was baptized and fellowshipped at St. Paul’s Baptist Church in Aylett, Virginia. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1961, and served on the USS John Paul Jones. As a Communications Officer, he served his country until he was honorably discharged in 1965. After serving his country, he went on to work as a Machine Technician for Phillip Morris USA, where he worked faithfully for over 30 years. He was affectionately known by his family and friends as “Red,” “W.O.,” and “Bill”. In his free time, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends. As a youth, he participated in baseball and basketball. However, he watched all sports and he truly enjoyed bragging to his brothers about the Washington Redskins. Later in life, he cultivated a firmer appetite for golf. His epitome of all sports icons was witnessing Tiger Woods in action. William lived as a man of his word, living life on his own terms. He enjoyed helping others, and often supported family members with there educational endeavors. He believed in responsibility, accountability, and above all perseverance. William lived his life to the fullest. William’s legacy lives on through his loving children, Shawn Tompkins of Highland Springs, VA and Dena Spruill of Richmond, VA; siblings, Estelle E. Brown of Spotsylvania, VA; Rosa B. Vessels (Mackes) of Aylett, VA; Rev. Anne D. Vessels and James D. Powell of Washington D.C., Doris H. Powell of Hyattsville, MD; Ellet R. Powell of Richmond, VA; George E. Powell (Deceased); Margaret B. Powell and Barbara E. King (Norman) of Washington D.C.; Patsy L. Butler of Mitchellville, MD; grandchildren, Bahja Canty and Re’Shawn Powell of Richmond, VA; stepson Sandy Eddleton of Richmond, VA; sister-in-law, Clara B. Powell of Aylett, VA; devoted nephew, Wayne Powell of Richmond, VA; and a host of other very special and devoted nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.

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William Oliver Powell

July 23, 1941 - March 24, 2013