Eugene "Gene" Powell

Eugene Randall Powell, Sr., affectionately known as Gene, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2023, in Appling, Georgia. Born on January 17, 1932, in Lincolnton, Georgia, Gene devoted his life to his family, his faith, and his country.

Gene's early life was marked by resilience and determination. His father, Joe Powell, passed away when Gene was very young, leaving him to navigate the challenges of life without his guidance. At the age of nine, Gene narrowly escaped a tornado that struck Lincolnton, further demonstrating his strength and fortitude. These experiences shaped Gene into the intelligent and faith-filled man he would become.
After graduating from Lincolnton High School in 1949, Gene immediately enlisted in the United States Navy. The very next day, he was shipped out to serve his country with honor and distinction. Following his service in the Navy, Gene attended Georgia Tech, where he graduated summa cum laude. His academic prowess and unwavering work ethic propelled him into a successful career with AT&T/Southern Bell.
Over his 30-year tenure with the company, Gene quickly ascended the ranks, taking on roles in major cities on both the East and West Coasts. At one point, he even worked in the iconic Twin Towers in New York City. By the time he retired, Gene had become a Southeastern Regional Manager, a testament to his dedication and skill.
Upon retirement, Gene and his wife, Patricia Hammond "Patsy" Powell, returned to their roots in Lincolnton. They settled into Gene's childhood home, just a block away from where Patsy had grown up. Together, they immersed themselves in their community, with Gene serving as an active member and Deacon of Goshen Baptist Church until his health no longer allowed him to do so.
Gene was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his sons, Eugene Randall "Randy" Powell, Jr., and James Hammond "Jimmy" Powell, and sister, Susan Blackwell as well as his grandchildren, Katie Lee, LeighAnne Powell, and Brandon Powell. Gene's legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Lila Anne Lee, Vivian Kate Lee, Amira Jaghab, Kylie Jaghab, and Charlie Jaghab. In addition to his parents, Joe Powell and Almeta Kannarney Powell Blackwell, he was also preceded in death by his wife, Patsy, son, Tommy Powell, stepfather, James Blackwell, siblings, Joe Grady Powell, Alicia Powell Martin, and Helen Powell Sparks.
A graveside service in honor of Gene's life will be held on Sunday, May 21, 2023, at 12:30 pm at Goshen Baptist Church, with Rev. Donnie Walton officiating. Jenkins Leverett and Mike Jaghab will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Beggs Funeral Home of Lincolnton is honored to serve the family of Mr. Eugene Randall Powell, Sr.
Gene's intelligence, faith, and perseverance will always be remembered, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

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