- Date Of Birth: January 22, 1922
- Date Of Death: November 14, 2016
- State: Florida
Born January 22, 1922 in Greenwood, Mississippi to Clarence Edgerton Powell and Rebecca Harris Powell, C.E. “Stoonie” Powell passed away with family by his side on Monday, November 14, 2016 at San Jose Health and Rehabilitation Center after a brief illness.
Stoonie grew up in Greenwood, graduated from Greenwood High School, and was proud to be a descendant of Choctaw leader Greenwood LeFlore for whom the city and its county are named.
In 1942, Stoonie interrupted his college education to serve in World War II as a B-26 tail-gunner in the 319th Bombardment Group, completing missions over Italy and southern France. A decorated veteran, Stoonie graduated in 1946 from Mississippi State University where he was president of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, president of the senior class, captain of the tennis team, member of Blue Key, and a Hall of Fame Inductee. His life-long love of “State” was known to all, especially his favorite former bookies.
An avid golfer, Stoonie enjoyed memberships in numerous country clubs, played annually in the Greater Jacksonville Open (GJO), the Disney Golf Classic and many other pro-am tournaments and was one of four golfers to compete in forty-eight consecutive Gator Golf days. While at times his skill may not have equaled his temper, Stoonie was always a favorite playing partner.
Predeceased by his parents and step-daughter Janice Green, Stoonie is survived by sisters Charlotte Koch and Shirley Sharkey and their families, his wife Dona Derse Powell, step-daughter Jeanne Beese, grandson Larry Boyd (Lea) and granddaughter Amanda Green (Chris Stewart).
Also predeceased by his former wife Virginia Browne Powell, Stoonie is cherished by his daughters Mary Virginia Fisher (Rod) and Lillian LeFleur Powell (Beth Betbeze), and granddaughters Laura Fisher Proffitt (Ryan) and Holly Fisher.
Stoonie’s quick wit, friendly personality, and winning manner endeared him to all who met him. With life experiences that far surpassed his ninety-four years, Stoonie leaves a legacy as unique as his name.
