John "Johnny" Lester Powell, Sr.

John Lester Powell, Sr., best known as “Johnny”, a man of remarkable skill and loving devotion, passed away on Thursday, the 14th day of November 2024, in Tyler, Texas, at the age of 72.  He was born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania on the 28th day of February 1952 to parents Lester R. Powell and Mary Myrtis Cowling.

A devout Christian, Johnny was an active member of the Glendale Baptist Church in Houston before moving to Elkhart. His faith was a guiding light in his life, providing him with strength and comfort. He lived his beliefs through his actions, always ready to lend a hand or offer a word of encouragement to those around him.

Johnny was a true "Renaissance Man." His wealth of knowledge and ability to fix just about anything were legendary. He was the quintessential handyman, a person who never needed to call for help because his self-taught skills were more than sufficient.

Johnny spent many years as a heavy equipment operator for the Texas Department of Transportation, a role in which he took great pride and dedication. His colleagues knew him as a man who could be relied upon, a trait that extended to his involvement with the International Union of Operating Engineers. His work was not just a job but a testament to his belief in the value of hard work and the importance of contributing to the community.

Johnny’s love for his family was immense, and he dedicated himself to their well-being and happiness. Johnny's role as a family man was central to his identity, and his loved ones always knew they were his top priority. He found joy in working on his tractor, maintaining and improving the property that was his family's sanctuary.

Described by those who knew him best as handy, intelligent, and loving, Johnny's legacy is one of enduring love and respect. His ability to approach life with a positive attitude, even in the face of adversity, set a powerful example for all.

Johnny Powell's life was a testament to the virtues of hard work, faith, and family. As we remember him, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and passion. Johnny will be deeply missed, but his spirit will remain a cherished presence in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

He is preceded in death by his parents Lester and Myrtis Powell, daughter Cyrena Berry, sisters Mary Lynn Price and Peggy Irwin, and his brother-in-law, Russell Price.

Johnny leaves behind his wife of 43 years, Sandy Powell; daughters, Keitha Palermo and husband John, and Amanda Powell; son, John L. Powell, Jr. and wife Elizabeth; nephew, Michael Irwin and wife Victoria; grandchildren, Ashlie Neubauer and husband Dustin, Brittany Powell, Hayley Berry, Madison Palermo, Kaitlyn Palermo, Aidan Powell, and Abby Powell.  He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Kayliegh Holcomb, Maddison Flanigan, C.J. Berry, and Jameson Neubauer.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Johnny Powell is to be conducted at two o’clock in the afternoon, on Friday, the 22nd day of November 2024 in the Rhone Memorial Chapel.  Friends are invited to visit with the family one hour prior to the start of the service at Rhone Funeral Home.

Memorial and cremation services for John Lester Powell, Sr. are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.  Please visit his online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with his family.

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