John R. Powell passed away peacefully on June 11, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. Born in Onancock, Va., on July 9, 1931, John lived a full and meaningful life, defined by quiet strength, dedication to his family, and a love for the simple joys of the world around him.
John proudly served his country in the Army National Guard during the Korean War, where his courage and service earned him three Bronze Stars and a Good Conduct Medal.
After more than 30 years of service, John retired from DuPont in Seaford. Retirement gave him the time to enjoy the things he loved most — especially working in his large, beautiful garden, casting a line off the coast of Virginia’s Eastern Shore, or enjoying a day on the Chesapeake Bay with his closest friends. He never returned from a fishing trip without a story to tell or a lesson to share.
John was the cornerstone of a large and loving family. He leaves behind his beloved wife and companion of 49 years, Dorothy. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and enduring memories. He was a devoted father to Mida Haynes (Jim), Amanda Smith, Kathleen Roberts (Paul), and Melinda Jackson; to his grandchildren — Megan Massey (Lance), Kandace Fuentes (Anthony), Morgan Smith, Garrett Dewolf (Thania), William Roberts (Jordan), Thomas Roberts, Richard Massey (Betty), and Earl Massey (Dawn) — he was affectionately known as “Pop Pop.” He delighted in spending time with them and later with his eight great-grandchildren. Whether it was fishing, biking, swinging on the old tree swing, or tending the garden, John found joy in every moment. He rarely missed a sporting event or school performance and never passed up a chance to offer heartfelt advice or share one of his many life stories.
John was also blessed with many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fletcher and Sally Powell; his sisters, Jane Jones and Amanda Nichols; his brothers, Littleton Powell and James Powell; and his granddaughter, Leah Lambertson.
John Powell will be remembered as a humble, gentle, and honorable man whose life was guided by loyalty, hard work, and family. His memory lives on in the gardens he planted, the stories he told, and the generations he helped raise. And for those who knew and loved him best, they can still hear him saying with a knowing smile, “Is that right?”
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Department of Veterans Affairs and the hospice team for their incredible compassion and care which brought great comfort in John’s final days. The nurses and aides treated John like he was their own family, and for that, we are forever grateful.
Please join the family and friends for Celebration of Life Saturday, June 28 from 1-4 p.m. at Ross Mansion 23669 Ross Station Road, Seaford. Lite lunch and desserts will be served.
To leave a condolence visit www.cranstonfuneralhome.com.