John L. Powell
1936-2023
John L. Powell, "Jack," passed away on August 17, 2023, at his home in Edmond, Oklahoma, following a brief battle with cancer. He was 87 years old. His wife Rozella, daughter Chandra, and granddaughter Poppy were by his side during his final moments.
Born on January 27, 1936, in Oklahoma City, Jack was adopted from the Oklahoma Baptist Orphan's Home by Ethel and George Powell as an infant. He spent his childhood in southeastern Oklahoma near Idabel, and then moved to Wanette, Oklahoma, where he graduated high school in 1954. He was drafted into the United States Army and completed his basic training at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, before being honorably discharged in 1958.
In 1965, Jack joined the Oklahoma City Police Department and spent 30 years on the force as a patrol officer. He upheld the model of public service and was affectionately known as the "Mayor of Britton," where he worked his beat. Students at John Marshall High School remember Officer Powell fondly, as he patrolled the campus to keep students safe. Former students and residents from the Old Town of Britton often shared stories and tributes on the Officer Jack Powell Facebook page. As a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, Jack never missed the annual Christmas luncheon where he visited with officers and other retirees.
Jack and Rozella married on May 7, 1970, and their daughter Chandra was born in 1974.
Following his retirement in 1995, Jack could often be found riding his bike on the streets of Edmond, finding bargains at nearby garage sales, and visiting the neighbors. He loved New York Yankees baseball, OU football, and the music of Elvis Presley, along with socializing with his neighbors and friends. Jack loved classic cars and enjoyed going to car shows or working in the garage on his 1965 Ford Mustang. Looking back over his life, he said he was most proud of his time on the police force in service to the community and of his family.
Jack is survived by his wife, Rozella of Edmond, Oklahoma; daughter Chandra, son-in-law Steve, and granddaughter, Poppy, of The Village, Oklahoma; his sister, Sue Pybas of Wanette, Oklahoma; and a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family wishes to thank Jack's caregivers at Mercy Hospice.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, September 23, 2023, at St. Eugene Catholic Church, 2400 West Hefner Road, Oklahoma City, OK 73120. This will be a come-and-go event from 1-3 p.m. in Ross Hall. Please join us and share your favorite memories of Jack with family and friends.