George William Powell

George William Powell, 87, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2023.

Born and raised in Harrellsville, North Carolina to the late James and Dolly Powell (nee Harrell), he was a graduate of Calvin S. Brown High School. In 1954 he went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Army during the Korean War in the 82nd Airborne before his honorable discharge in 1957.

George moved to Elizabeth, New Jersey and spent time working for General Motors, Shore Medical Center, The Elizabeth Library and he tended bar at Smitty’s in Linden. He met wife Gladys Patricia King (Patti) in Linden the two were married and resided in Rahway. The Powell family lived in Jackson and George found work for many years as a Salesman for Gallo Wines before settling to Somerville in 1983. George operated George’s Painting and Repairs for almost forty years. He was known to be reliable and fair, a true asset to the Somerville Community.

George was proud of his service in the military and loved his country. He found joy in volunteering with the VA, mentoring soldiers with PTSD in their Victorious program. He was a devoted father and grandfather who will be missed by his family and community at large. George was known for his sense of humor, he has been quoted as saying he lost his leg “kicking ass”, and wanted a celebration of his life to be held where everyone could keep it real in their opinions on him, no judgement passed. George was a lover of sports and would often be caught debating about games while wearing his favorite teams attire.

He is preceded in death by his siblings, Hattie Williams, Marie Powell, James Powell, Lucradia Raynor and Patty Watford.

Surviving are his beloved wife Patti, his loving children Wayne and wife Heather, George Anthony and fiancé Karen, Gina Harper-Powell and husband James, Gretchen (Gigi), and Gary, his eight cherished grandchildren, Shanice, Samantha, P, Samantha L, Lauren, Brad, Alexander, Gianna, and Liam, his dear siblings

Mable White, Naomi Howard, Thomas Powell, Gladys Hall (husband Alfred Hall) as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and community friends.

A celebration of life will be held by the family during the summer, date to be determined.