Lisa Dawn Powell

Lisa Dawn Powell, 60, of Chandler, Arizona passed away on July 18, 2023. Lisa was born on December 1, 1962, in Inglewood, California at Daniel Freeman Hospital. She grew up in Redondo Beach and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Lisa was an accomplished equestrian, winning dozens of ribbons competing against the best riders in the country. Upon graduating from Miraleste High School in 1980, she worked as an usher at the Forum concert arena where she loved interacting with guests, high-profile celebrities, athletes, and musicians.

Lisa started her career in law enforcement while attending Harbor Community College. She served as a 911 dispatcher for the City of Long Beach. After relocating to Phoenix in 1989, she attended Arizona State University (ASU) and in 1992, earned a BS degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. Lisa served on the Tempe Police Department Crisis Intervention Team, helping people navigate the immediate aftermath of trauma. She served as a Tempe Police Officer from 1994 to 2004. During her tenure, she was recognized with the Meritorious Service Award, Marksmanship Award and Longevity Service Award. Lisa was most proud of being a member of the Tempe Police Mounted Unit. She adopted her patrol horse "Officer Smokey Joe” when he retired.

Lisa’s unwavering dedication as a loving mother to her children Macaulay and Jonathan also shone brightly at Tarwater Elementary, Bogle Junior High and Hamilton High School where her passion, creativity, and artistic talent were valuable assets. Lisa was known as the "cool mom", and even as a second mom by Jonathan’s friends. She was loving and selfless, always willing to go the extra mile to help those around her feel special and loved. Over the last two years, Lisa was blessed with two beautiful grandchildren Maeven and Walker, and she loved them with all her heart. Lisa proudly wore the silver and black as a lifelong member of Raider Nation.

Lisa is survived by her husband of 26-years, Michael Powell; her daughter, Macaulay Marsh (Ian); son, Jonathan Powell; grandchildren, Maeven and Walker Marsh; her mother, Marilyn MacLeod; sisters, Melanie MacLean (Jeff) and Heather Kline (Rick) and nephews Cameron MacLean (Cara), Harrison MacLean and niece, Emily MacLean. Lisa was preceded in death by her father, Ian MacLeod.

Lisa’s legacy of love for her tight circle of family and lifelong friends, her service to others, and her passion for animals will continue to inspire us to appreciate the beauty of compassion and the importance of treasuring our loved ones. The immediate family will honor Lisa with a private celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests honoring Lisa's deep love of animals with donations to the Arizona Animal Welfare League at https://aawl.org/content/tribute-and-memorial-gifts or click the link below.