Rev. Paul Edward Powell

Paul E. Powell died peacefully on Monday, April 10 at Mesa Springs Retirement Village in Abilene, TX. Reverend Powell was 97. “Brother Powell,” as he was fondly known, was a Baptist minister for more than 75 years in churches in Missouri and Texas. He was the third of five children born to Bertha and Herbert Powell in St. Louis, MO.

As a boy and throughout his career Paul was industrious and committed to whatever the task. In his youth he worked conscientiously to reach the level of Eagle Scout. He was two badges short of that goal when in the ninth grade he had to drop out of scouts and out of school to go to work to earn the $50 needed for his father’s surgery. He later completed high school and became the first person in his family to attend college. His first opportunity to be a pastor came at age 19 when each weekend he hitch-hiked 100 miles each way between his Southwest Baptist College and his church so he could preach.

Paul always had a passion for missions, history, and Bible study. While in Longview he helped start a church mission, and then in St. Louis began several non-English speaking missions and a community center in an underserved neighborhood. Even after he moved to Abilene at age 93, he conducted worship services and Bible studies for residents at Mesa Springs.

Paul met Constance (Connie) MacGray while they were students at William Jewell college in Liberty, MO. They married in June 1947 and enjoyed 57 years together until her death in 2004. Paul was preceded in death by his two sisters, two brothers, and his parents. He is survived by his five sons, James and wife, Dianne, of Lubbock, John and wife, Judy, of Abilene, Jerry and wife, Janet, of Queensboro, NY, Jud and wife, Martha, of Abilene, and Jack of Canton, CT, as well as 14 grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren.

He endeared himself to others, friends and strangers, even through his final days with the staff in nursing care. He was a loving husband, a caring father, and a compassionate pastor. A private grave-side service will be held at a later date in St. Louis. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local church or charity of choice in his memory.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.elliott-hamil.com for the Powell family.