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Ezra Lloyd (Deacon) Powell

Another soldier, Master Saergant Ezra Lloyd Powell, was laid to rest at Bethel Baptist Church cemetery in Monticello on April 7, 2017. He passed away peacefully in his home on the afternoon of April 6, 2017 with family by his side. He was 96 years old, born August 29, 1920 in Tilton. He was the only son of Ezra Emerald and Inez Boyd Powell.
He was preceded in death by many family members and friends, including his loving wife of 70 years, Catherine Walker Powell, who left her earthly home in September of 2011. He is survived by his daughter and her family; Carolyn and Robert Lang; sons, Glenn and Cindy Powell and Keith and Shelia Powell, all of Monticello; seven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren with another due this year. He also leaves two half-brothers, Willie J. Hedgepeth and Clifton B. Hedgepeth.
He was a lifelong resident of Lawrence County, where he made many friends. He knew hard work at an early age and volunteered for the United States Army Service in November of 1940 at Fort Benning, Georgia. As part of the 29th infantry, he left the States in 1943 for six months to Iceland and then traveled on to England, until D-day in June of 1944. After landing in Omaha Beach, Normandy, he served in the ETO, 3rd Army under the command of General Patton, through the Battle of the Bulge in 1945. He later served during the Korean Conflict. Upon his return home, he joined the local National Guard Unit and served until 1970, when he received injuries in a work accident and was honorably retired from duties after a total of 30 years of selfless service to our country.
He continued his serving in various capacities in his home church of Bethel Baptist. His favorite was being a nursery worker. He loved being with other people and helping with any need that arose. He was the 2006 Book of Golden Deeds recipient and was blessed to be recognized by such good friends. He lived a life full of love for God, family and country. He shared much wisdom and many stories with multiple generations in our community. His faith was evident throughout his life. His family was a priority and his grandchildren a delight. His laughter brought cheer and will forever be remembered. He was admired for his strength in times of adversity, his generosity to family and friends and a merry heart.
We will miss our “Pap” but have wonderful times to reminisce on. From gardening and livestock to river adventures there was never a dull moment. We will cherish all of the many fish fries, creek rides, tractor shows and sugar cane days. He lived life well and with an everlasting joy that was noticed by everyone he crossed paths with.
In honor of this loved man, there will be a celebration of life service on Saturday, April 29, at 5 p.m. at Bethel Baptist Church in Monticello. Anyone is welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers/plants, the family would like to request donations be made to the children’s ministry or cemetery funds at Bethel Baptist Church. These both held a special place in his heart.