James "Wallace" Powell

James Wallace Powell, 91, went to his heavenly home on March 12, 2025. He was born on July 28, 1933 in Dadeville, Alabama, to Willie Lee Powell, Sr. and Katie Dell Jordan Powell. A celebration of his life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, March 17, 2025 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika, Alabama. Prior to the service, the family will greet friends and loved ones between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Mr. Powell was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church Opelika, and served as both a member and the chair of the Board of Deacons. He was very active in the life of his church family. He taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, and participated in many mission activities. His abundant Christian faith was apparent to all, because he lived out his beliefs every day. He loved recreational softball and played on several teams until age 65. He worked at Life of Georgia Insurance for over 25 years and was a proud member of the Opelika Elks Lodge and Kiwanis Club. He was a member of the Army Reserve/National Guard for over 40 years and participated in missions to Germany, Honduras, and Panama while assigned to the 3rd Army. During his service he was awarded numerous medals and commendations.

He was an exceptionally devoted husband and father and served as the sole caretaker for his wife, Jonnie Ruth for many years as her health declined. Mr. Powell was a selfless and shining example of a Christian life well lived to his children, grandchildren, and those who knew him.

Mr. Powell is survived by two children: Kathy Farquhar (Andy) and Wes Powell (Marlene); three grandchildren: Jamie Farquhar (Andrea), Charlie Farquhar (Jenna), and Robbie Farquhar (Sherry Leigh); three great-grandchildren: Andrew Farquhar, Henry Farquhar, and Lacey Kathryn Farquhar; and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 66 years, Jonnie Ruth Powell, his parents, his brother Willie Lee (Billy) Powell, Jr., and his sister Mary Powell Bankston.

The Powell Family would like to thank the staff of Dadeville Health Care and especially those dedicated workers on the First Hall.  Heartfelt thanks also to Ivy Creek Hospice, and the many dear friends and neighbors who have meant so much to our family through the years.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to First Baptist Church Opelika, or to a charity of ones choice.