George Fletcher Powell, Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2026, at the age of 93, in his home in Ogden, Utah.

He was born on November 11, 1932, in Newport News, Virginia to William Ernest Llewellyn Sr. and Euzelia Vick Llewellyn. Originally named William Ernest Llewellyn Jr., his life changed profoundly after the loss of his father in an automobile accident during the Great Depression. He was placed for adoption and raised by George Fletcher Powell, Sr. and Ethel Mae Pate Powell, who gave him the name he would carry and be known by for the remainder of his life.

George married the love of his life, Dixie Ann Shupe, in Ogden, Utah on October 16, 1954. Together they built a life rooted in deep love, devotion, and partnership, raising four sons, Kirk, Bradley, Michael, and Jeffery. Their life together took them around the world through his service in the United States Air Force and later through their shared

love of travel. In her later years, as Dixie experienced dementia, George cared for her with extraordinary patience, tenderness, and compassion. Their bond remained constant throughout each chapter of their life together.

George served his country with honor in the United States Air Force, joining in 1951 just two weeks after graduating from Newport News High School. Through his dedication and pursuit of education, he advanced from enlisted ranks to become an officer, receiving the bronze star, then ultimately retiring as a Major after 21 years of service. His time in the military reflected the same integrity, discipline, and quiet strength that defined his life.

Beyond his military career, George was a gifted entrepreneur. He started and built businesses over the years, guided by curiosity, independence, and a desire to create something of his own (and to also provide opportunities for his family). That same creative spirit extended into his artistry. Through carving, painting, and other mediums, he brought ideas to life with his hands. He entered pieces in the Utah State Fair, earning numerous awards including Best in Show. In his later years, he continued creating, often making art for elementary schools and disadvantaged children. He said he simply wanted to bring a smile to their faces. These gestures reflected his creative talent and his desire to contribute in meaningful ways. He also spent his time playing the banjo and ukulele.

To know George was to experience a rare and genuine presence. He had a gift for noticing the details of people’s lives and holding onto them in a way that made each person feel seen and remembered. His conversations were thoughtful and unhurried, his curiosity sincere. He connected with people in a way that left a lasting impression.

He was also a gifted storyteller, often weaving humor into his memories and observations. His stories did more than entertain, they brought people together and stayed with them long after they were told.

George lived with authenticity, integrity, and quiet strength. He approached life with curiosity and intention, always seeking to understand more about the world and the people around him. The lessons he taught were often unspoken but deeply felt, how to show up for others, how to remain steady, and how to live with honesty and heart.

At the age of 63, after more than six decades apart, he was blessed to reconnect with his siblings from his early childhood, Mary Etta Hyder and John Edwards.

He is survived by his sons Kirk (Carole), Brad, and Jeffery (Carrie), daughter-in-law Christie Hyer (Scott), who was an unwavering support to him, especially in his later years. Daughter-in-law, Christine Powell, his brother-in-law Jerry Shupe (Diane), as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Dixie, his son Michael, his parents, his sisters Alva Marie Powell and Mary Etta Hyder, and his brother John Edwards.

 A Graveside service will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. located at the Ogden City Cemetery, 1875 Monroe Blvd, Ogden, UT.

 Above all, George’s love, generosity and dignity created a foundation that will truly live on through his family for generations to come.

"THE TRUE SECRET OF HAPPINESS LIES IN TAKING A GENUINE INTEREST IN ALL THE DETAILS OF DAILY LIFE."  -William Morris