Obituary: Edward Michael Powell

Dr. Edward M. Powell, PhD

Dr. Edward M. Powell, PhD

Edward Powell, 75, of Prescott, Ariz., passed away on Sunday, Aug. 12, 2012, surrounded by his family.He is survived by his wife Ruth of 57 years, and daughters Kim Soricone (Robert), Kelly Powell, Jill Smith (Richie), Jackie Benton (Brett), Jennifer Packer (Mike), Heather Johnson (James) and Heidi Hansen (Justin). He is also survived by his brothers, Richard Powell (Bonnie), Reuben Shilts (Sharon), Stevie Shilts (Lucy) and Jimmy Shilts. In addition, Edward leaves behind three grandsons, 12 granddaughters, one great-grandson and one great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his mother Francis Shilts and father Walter Dominic Powell and brothers David Powell and John and Michael Shilts.Edward was born April 28, 1937, in Gibson City, Ill. At the age of 10, he and his brother, Richard, were sent to live in the Illinois Soldiers' and Sailors' Children School, an orphanage in Normal, Ill. While there, he attended and graduated from University High School. He obtained his bachelor's degree from Illinois State University and his master's and Ph.D. from Purdue University.He spent much of his career working in the field of education, as a biology teacher, school superintendent, adjunct faculty and as a substitute teacher in his retirement. He was passionate about public school education, as he credits any success he had in life to his teachers at University High School. Edward was a loving father and advisor to his seven daughters and grandchildren. They will miss him tremendously.In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Yavapai Food Bank, 8866 E. Long Mesa Drive, Prescott Valley, AZ 86314. Services will be 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 17, 2012, at All Saints Lutheran Church, 15649 N. 7th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85022.Information provided by survivors.

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