Betty J. Powell

Betty J. Powell, a cherished member of her community and a devoted woman of faith, passed away peacefully at Ridgeview Care Center in Oblong, IL, on September 7, 2023. Born on November 13, 1935, in Licking Township, west of Annapolis, IL, she attended a one-room schoolhouse growing up and would eventually graduate early from Hutsonville High School in 1952 at the tender age of 16. It was at this time that she moved to Robinson, IL, and found her lifelong career as a secretary at the law office of Manford Cox and Carroll Cox. Committed to her profession, she remained with the firm for an astounding 62 years, serving with dignity, intelligence, and absolute discretion before retiring from Cox, Phillips, Weber, Tedford, Heap, and Ayres in 2014.

Outside of the office, Betty was a woman of many talents. A talented seamstress, she delighted in sewing and knitting, often crafting beautiful garments for her loved ones. Her skills in the kitchen were noteworthy, particularly when it came to baking. Whether it was her exceptional sourdough bread, Parker house rolls, or divine cookies, family and friends eagerly anticipated her culinary delights. Additionally, Betty had a green thumb, tending to her garden full of vibrant geraniums and many other flowers.

Anyone who knew her could attest to the fact that Betty had a deep love for animals, especially cats. Her adoration was such that she had her house adorned with pictures of her feline friends, and she went to the extent of walking one of her cats with a leash and halter! Despite her reserved demeanor, her daring spirit often surprised many, firmly believing the mantra, "Anything a man can do, I can do!" This spirit resonated in her actions, making her an inspiring figure to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Betty Powell was a pillar of strength, faith, and courage. Whether it was braving snowy winters with tire chains to get to work or mowing her lawn with her John Deere, she was always ready to face whatever challenge came her way. Her legacy is one of resilience, devotion, and a boundless love for her family, friends, and faith. Her walk with Jesus manifested itself in devotion to her home church, the Palestine First United Methodist Church, where she was a longtime Sunday school teacher and a staple of every gathering. Though we will miss her presence, we know that she is not gone, just gone from our sight and in the loving arms of her Savior.

She is survived by her sister, LaDonna Stant; by her sisters-in-law & brother-in-law, Mary Jo & Keith Holmes and Susan Bonham; and by two special nephews, Patrick & Donna Bonham (and their family) and Jonathan Bonham.

She married LeRoy Espy Powell on November 11, 1979, and he preceded her in death on March 18, 2016. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Berl & March (Tracey) Bonham; her sister, Janet Bonham (in infancy); her brothers, Larry Bonham and Roger Bonham; and her brother-in-law, Roy Don Stant.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, September 11th, at the Palestine Cemetery, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. In honor of her love of her four-legged companions, memorials may be made to the "Crawford County Humane Society" with envelopes available at the cemetery. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine is in charge of arrangements.