Barbara Brunson Power

Barbara “Sissy” Brunson Power, of Tampa, Florida, passed away peacefully at her home on Christmas morning Friday, December 25, 2020. Born October 23, 1934 in Jacksonville, Florida, Sissy attended St. Paul’s Catholic School from first through twelfth grade where she met her future husband, Fred Power, when they were both in 2nd grade.

She attended FSU in 1952, pledging Kappa Delta Sorority and remaining a life-long loyal member of her beloved sorority. She and Fred were married in 1955 in Jacksonville, beginning their marriage of more than 65 years. Moving to Tampa in 1964, Sissy raised their five children while Fred was a college professor at the newly established University of South Florida.

The Powers eventually moved to Hampton Place in Carrollwood, establishing the family homestead that remains to this day. So that her children could attend the Academy of the Holy Names, Sissy became a secretary at the school for several years. She then became a very successful realtor, retiring when her husband retired from USF in 2000.

Traveling together, Sissy and Fred visited most countries of the world, collecting memories and memorabilia that she lovingly shared with her family and friends. Sissy and Fred spent the summers in Duluth, MN, forming friendships that have remained strong through the years. Sissy never met a stranger and was loved by all who knew her. Her vast circle of friends is a tribute to the remarkable person she was. A wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend, she will forever be cherished by her family for her kindness, laughter, wisdom, thoughtfulness, devotion and beautiful blue eyes. She was a devout Catholic who instilled those values in her children.

Sissy is preceded in death by her parents, Joy and Edna Brunson, and her sister Edna “Doodle” Brunson Chilton. She is survived by her husband, Fred B. Power and her five children, Nolan Power Kimball, Patty Power Bohannan (Robert), Fred B. Power, Jr. (Arlene), Meg Power Jaap (Mickey) all of Tampa, FL and Frank B. Power (Carol) of Homestead, FL, as well as 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

The family will hold a private Catholic service and burial on December 31, 2020. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sissy’s name to the Academy of the Holy Names’ Endowed Scholarship fund, 3319 Bayshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33629