Howard D. Powell (PaPa), was called home unexpectedly on November 15, 2016, at All Saints-Ascension Hospital in Racine, Wisconsin.  He professed his love for Christ at an early age in Crocket County, Tennessee.  As a youth, he relocated to Racine, Wisconsin, with his loving parents where he became a member of St. Paul Baptist Church with his father and attended Grace Temple Church of God in Christ with his mother.  He was a praying man and a humanitarian at heart. He regularly delighted those around him with his lively personality.

Howard developed outstanding work ethics at an early age.  Following graduation from High School Howard worked for J.I. Case for eight years where he served as a supervisor.  In 1973, Howard joined Twin Disc Incorporated where he was a master machinist and blueprint specialist until his retirement in 2005.  He attended Gateway Technical College, was a member of the 20-Year Club and received awards.  For over 40 years Howard demonstrated his commitment to excellence through dedicated service in the workplace.

He was an active member of the Masonic Lodge and never met a stranger.  He would feed anyone in the neighborhood. He would draw large gatherings of people to have barbecue and fellowship in his backyard.  Howard was a friend and mentor in the community and had a passion for helping others in need.  He is often described as a "Good Man" or "His Brother's Keeper"; to many men (young and old)  was the father, the brother or the best friend they never had.

Howard loved the Lord and his family. His family knew they could depend on him.  He believed in the importance of education and was proud of his children.  His grandchildren  loved "PaPa". He was a positive role model and influential figure in the lives, growth and development of his children and grandchildren. We give praise to God for the life of our loved one.  He will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.

He leaves to cherish his loving memories his beautiful wife, best friend and "his backbone" of 51 years, Joanne Powell; two loving daughters, Annette Powell and Carmen Carter of Houston, Texas; three grandchildren: Ashley Moore of Houston, TX; Sterling Carter of Columbus, OH; and Joauna. Carter of Houston, TX.; five brothers: Alvin (Teresa) Powell of Maury City, TN; Travis (Gale) Wade of Brownsville, TN; Floyd (Deitre) Wade of Alamo, TN; Winkey (Pam)Wade and Mendell (Alissa) Wade of Jackson, TN; Four sisters; Stella Powell of Chicago, IL; Joann (Fred) Sumrall of Nashville, TN; Valerie (Aaron) Watson of Fairview Heights, IL and Beverly (Earl) Shaw of Jackson, TN, and a special nephew Ronsanta Tucker, special friend Thomas (Pee Wee) Hayes, and a host of other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents; Kathryn and Alvin D. Powell of Racine, WI; stepmother Hazzie Powell of Racine, WI and Travis Wade Sr. of Alamo, TN.

Service Details

Visitation at the funeral home on Friday,  Nov 25th from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with the Masonic Lodge Service at 6:00 p.m.

all Mason as invited to meet at the funeral home at 5:30 p.m. to open Lodge.

The Homegoing Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday at Greater Grace Temple Church with a visitation from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service.

Burial will follow in Graceland Cemetery.