Jewel Jacqueline Taylor Powell

Jewel Jacqueline Taylor-Powell–Christian, daughter, sister, wife, mother, step-mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, cousin and good friend went home to our Father on December 11, 2015. Jewel was born in Marion, SC on February 11, 1934. She was known for her caring, warm, positive and outgoing spirit that always made people feel welcome.

Jewel grew up in Hampton, VA, after Mary and George Taylor (Jewel’s parents) moved to Virginia from South Carolina. She was part of the 1951 graduating class of George P. Phenix High School. Jewel realized her love for dancing at Phenix High and participated in the art of dance. Art was always one of her strong talents throughout her life that she immensely enjoyed.

Jewel married Charles T. Royster and traveled with her military husband and four children around the world. She eagerly accepted the life of an Army wife and the prospect of travel it offered. She fit in well with the military life and the adventures it offered, though she missed her family in Hampton, VA and visited them often. Jewel would always come home to Hampton, when Charles fought in the Korean War and twice in the Vietnam War. All of her children were born in Hampton, VA.

Jewel and her family settled in Newport News after her husband retired. She went to work at Naval Weapons Station, Yorktown, VA. Starting out as a GS-3 and working her way up to GS-11 as the Data Security Manager in the Data Processing Department. She was admired by many. She attracted many friends along the way, with her inner beauty and genuine caring spirit. She would light up a room upon entering.

Later in her life, she married William J. Powell. They lived in Williamsburg, VA and owned a business; Quik Klean. After William J. Powell went home, Jewel and her daughter lived together.

Jewel lovingly leaves Denise Rosser, her daughter, second born and caregiver for the last ten years. Sons: first born Charles T. Royster, Retired Navy, fourth born Gary Royster, Estimatic Team Manager for State Farm. Son and third born Michael G. Royster preceded her home. Daughter-in-law and Gary’s wife: Tuul Tsolmon Royster. Grandchildren: Dawn Rosser-Llewellyn, Rebecca Moliterno, Kayla Royster, Isa Royster. Great-grandchildren: Nakya White, Jonas Royster, Jr and Cash Moliterno. Step-children: William J. Powell Jr, LaShonda Powell and Monique Powell. Sister-in-laws: Zenobia Taylor, Lois Taylor, F. Melvina Branch, Constance P. Johnson, Barbara J. Allen. Brother-in-laws: Roland M. Powell and Colonious E. Powell. Father-in-law: Rev. William E. Powell.

There are many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of relatives and friends who will also carry her in their hearts. Jewel leaves a strong legacy as a dedicated wife, loving mother, mother-in-law and grandmother, engaging sister and sister-in-law. She was a sincere and steadfast friend to all who knew her. Her smile and her warm and loving spirit are forever in our hearts.

A memorial service will be conducted at 1:30 PM on Saturday, January 9, 2016, at Calvary Revival Church, 119 29th Street, Newport News, VA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jewel’s honor to Pancreatic Cancer Awareness.

Friends are encouraged to visit www.parklawn-woodfh.com to share memories and words of condolence with the family.

Arrangements are under the care of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Avenue, Hampton, Virginia 23666.