Dorothy Black Powell
Dorothy Black Powell, 89, of Sanford, Alabama, passed away at Andalusia Manor on October 6th due to complications from dementia. She leaves behind her loving husband, James Forest Powell, with whom she shared 68 years together.
She is also survived by her daughter–Sheri D. Powell of Sanford, son–Gregory F. Powell, Ph.D. (Dr. Cheryl Blanck) of Andalusia, and brother—John Frank Black (Phyllis) of Shepherdstown, West VA.
She is preceded in death by her parents–Edward E. Black and Leosia Maughon Black, and brother–
Edward E. Black, Jr. Dorothy Powell, or “Dot” as many called her, had a passion for education and was an educator for over
forty years. After graduating Straughn High School, she obtained bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Troy State University (now Troy University). She was also awarded a post-secondary degree from Auburn University for those working in the education field.
She began her teaching career at Springfield Elementary School in Panama City but soon moved back to Alabama, where she spent most of her forty-year career teaching the first grade in Opp, Alabama. She retired in June 1995 from South Highlands Elementary School. For years after her retirement, there
were still people who would come up to her and say, “You taught me in first grade” or “You taught my son” or “You taught my daughter.” This was usually followed by the person saying how much she meant to them for being such a caring and thoughtful teacher. While one of her greatest joys came from helping children learn to read, her other passion was fishing. She considered fishing as her way to relax and would often fish for hours, even if nothing was biting but the mosquitoes.
Dorothy Powell was also devoted to her community in Sanford. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Sanford and played piano there for more than 50 years. During those years, she taught
Sunday School for all age groups. The family would like to take the opportunity to thank those who participated in the celebration of her
life. Visitation and graveside services was held on Oct. 9th.
Pallbearers included Calton Killingsworth,
Jason Killingsworth, Sonny Thomasson, Chris Thomasson, Ricky Hudson, and Eddie Edson. Rev. Ray
Armstrong officiated.
She will be sorely missed by her loving family and extended family of former students and friends. To
honor her legacy, donations may be made in Dorothy Powell’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association,
P.O. Box 96011, Washington D.C. 20090-6011 or search Alzheimer’s Association Make a Donation.
