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Cecil N. Powell

9/17/1934 - 12/1/2025

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Obituary For Cecil N. Powell

Cecil N. Powell

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, father-in-law, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Cecil passed peacefully while surrounded by family, and from the loving arms of his wife, into the loving arms of his Savior, on Monday December 1, 2025.

Born in Danville, Virginia on September 17, 1934 to John and Laura Powell, he was the first of 8 children.

After attending Norview High School, he spent 4 years in the US Army, serving much of that time in Germany.

In 1956 he began his career at Ford Motor Company, until retirement in 1991.

In the 70's, Cecil formed one of the most talented and respected country music bands in the area. Cecil Powell, and The Yellow Jackets played all over the tidewater area including The County Line, officers clubs, country music jamborees, and telethons. No one loved a Merle Haggard song as much as he did.

Predeceased by his parents, John and Laura, his siblings, Ray, Frank, Patsy, and Roxey along with as his first wife, and the mother of his children, Dolores Byrum Powell.

He is survived by his most loving and devoted wife, Cookie, his dedicated children, Sherri Brice (Tammy) and Jeff Powell (Laura) and his bonus children, Valerie Berrios and Phil Villagas (Denise), his most loved siblings Willard Powell (Jean), Joan Balbirnie (John) and June Sheffel.

His cherished grandchildren, Chrystal Gray (Danny), Tiffanie Gahagan (Barrett) and Cody Powell (Janie).

Bringing immense joy were his 8 great- grandchildren, and 5 great-great grandchildren.

We will miss him every day but are comforted knowing he is whole again, with no more pain or suffering. He fought with dignity and grace.

We will forever cherish the wonderful memories of time spent together and long talks of life and lessons.

Until we meet again, you will remain in our hearts forever. Rest easy.

Please join us for a celebration of life, Saturday January 10, from 5-8, Jerry's of Indian River.

Simply Cremation is assisting Cecil’s family during this difficult time. Please share memories and express condolences at SimplyCremationOnline.com.

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Condolences

  • 12/14/2025

    Wanda Callesto

    I'm so sorry to hear of your dad passing. He was such a wonderful man. A great friend. I loved hearing y'all sing together. He will be truly missed by all. RIP Cecil

  • 12/12/2025

    WILBERT A MCCOY JR (Mac)

    Jeff,Preacher just called n told me about your dad.10/25/1976.The day I entered the railyard,he took me under his wing n taught me everything I needed to know about shipping and receiving of vehicles and some life advice like a dad.My heartfelt condolences to you and your family

  • 12/11/2025

    Sibrena "O'Neal" Myers

    Dear Family, I met Cecil when I was just a child. Even though it has been many years since we saw each other, I still remember his kindness to this day. Rest in peace. May his loving memories fill your hearts.

  • 12/10/2025

    Kaye & Jonnie Allen

    Cecil was a special man who had the ability (when he was talking to you), to make you feel like you were the only person in the room. When he would come to our office in greenbrier (GBAIC), it was like a celebrity had just entered, we all loved him & we were excited to see him & be of assistance. Jonnie & I will continue to pray for each of you (especially our dear friend Sherri & Cookie). May God bless each of you now & in the days & weeks to come!🩷

  • 12/09/2025

    Nicki and Randy Rodriguez

    I remember when we first met. You thought I said my name was Nookie. From there on out I became Nookie. We joked laughed and had serious conversations. From your hair looks nice to our last private serious chat. You always looked out for me. You always knew I had peanuts for you. Your smile and laughter was contagious and could light up a room. You loved hard and boy were you stubborn. Thank you for sharing Pops with us. We may not have been blood but he is and will always be family.

  • 12/09/2025

    Darrell Lowe

    All I can do is smile and say "MY MAN" because that's what he would say and do every single time we seen each other !!!

  • 12/09/2025

    Robin Bonney

    Sherry, and family, I am truly sorry for the loss of your Father. A dad is a girl' first love. Your hero and friend. I know how much you miss him, and your heart is broken. But, rest assure , he is happy and reunited with his Savior, and family. Probably playing in a band. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. God bless you, and give you peace.

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