Willie "Billy" Powell, Jr.

Willie Lee (Billy) Powell, Jr., 94, went to his heavenly home on November 6, 2023.  Billy was born on November 18, 1929 in Ashland, Alabama to Willie Lee Powell, Sr. and Katie Dell Jordan Powell.  A celebration of his life will be held at 3:00 pm on Thursday, November 9, 2023 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika, Alabama. Prior to the service, the family will greet friends and loved ones between 2:00 and 3:00 pm.

Mr. Powell graduated from The Alabama School for the Deaf in Talladega, Alabama in 1952. There he received additional training in print and type setting. He returned to Opelika and began perfecting his skills which started a lifelong career of over 46 years as a loyal and valuable employee with Craftmaster Printers.  

Mr. Powell played football and basketball during his high school career and continued to have a passion for both throughout his life.  His love for Auburn sports was well known to all who knew and loved him. He was a caring and compassionate individual who enjoyed spending time with  family and friends.

After meeting the love of his life, he and Frances married in 1978 and immediately became involved with the Deaf Ministry at First Baptist Church in Opelika where they were both active and involved members. His devotion and love for the members of this class and his faith remained strong until his death. 

Mr. Powell is survived by his brother Wallace Powell, nephews: Wes Powell  (Marlene ), Jeff Bankston ( Brenda ), and  niece: Kathy Farquhar (Andy).

He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 41 years, Emma Frances McKnight Powell, his parents, and his sister: Mary Powell Bankston.

 In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Deaf Ministry of Opelika First Baptist Church, Alabama Baptist Conference for the Deaf and Talladega Institute for the Deaf and Blind.

The Powell family wishes to thank the staff of Dadeville Health Care, Community Home Health and Hospice, Staff of Morningside Assisted Living of Auburn, and so many dear friends that have meant so much to Billy and our family over the years.