Obituary of Odevia Powell

Odevia "Dee" Harold Powell was born on July 1, 1943 in Middlesboro, Kentucky. He was one of six children born of the late James M. and Margaret (White) Powell. Dee honorably served his country in the United States Army, earning Marksman and the National Defense Medal. Dee married the love of his life, the now late Jean (Renner) Powell, on April 27, 1968, at Trinity Episcopal Church in Monroe. From this union, came the birth of three boys. Dee was a dedicated Foreman with ConRail (Norfolk), where he supported his family for over forty-two years, finally taking retirement in 2004. He valued nothing over his family, enjoying every moment he had with them, especially his grandchildren.. He spent countless days at the cottage on Higgins Lake, and often went fishing. After retirement, Dee often helped out as a crossing guard for Monroe Public Schools. In his quiet time, he enjoying playing cards, watching old westerns with John Wayne, and reading books, Louis L'Amour being one of his favorite authors. Dee was a sports fanatic, especially enjoyed University of Michigan. Odevia "Dee" Harold Powell, age 72 of Monroe, passed away at 6:28pm on Monday, March 21, 2016 at ProMedica Toledo Hospital with his loving boys at his side. In addition to his parents, he was preceded by his loving wife: Jean in 2005; and four brothers: Tipford Gibson; Johnny Powell; Kenneth Powell; and William Powell. To cherish his memory, he leaves three children: Micheal (Laura) Powell of LaSalle; Matthew (Stephanie) Powell of Petersburg; and Steven Powell of Canton, Ohio; and three grandchildren: Caitlin Powell, Mattilyn Powell, and Ayce Powell. Friends may gather from 4:00pm to 8:00pm on Thursday, March 24, 2016 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A celebration of his life will take place at 10:00am on Friday, March 25, 2016 also at Merkle's, with Pastor Rick Massingill of North Monroe Street Church of God officiating. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial, where graveside services will be held under the auspices of the United States Army and the Monroe VFW Post 1138. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com, Online Tributes page.