Patricia ‘Patti’ S. Powell, 77, of Huntsville, passed away on March 11, 2026. She was born on October 17, 1948, in Rock Island IL to Delbert S. and Anita T. Spears. After graduating from Huntsville High School in 1966, she attended Auburn University graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Alabama A&M University with a Master’s Degree in Adult Education, began her 31 year career working for the Department of Defense on Redstone Arsenal as an Education Specialist at the U.S. Arm Ordnance Missile and Munitions Center and School.
While working on the Arsenals, she met the love of her life, Joe, who was still active duty military at the time. After a brief engagement, they were married on December 16, 1978. They enjoyed taking trips to various locations and especially enjoyed summer vacations in Destin, FL and Gulf Shores, AL. She loved animals and especially enjoyed the 4 cats she and Joe had during their time together. She was an active member of Faith Presbyterian Church for many years serving as a Deacon and Sunday School teacher.
Survivors include her beloved husband of 47 years, Joe A. Powell; sons, Edmond L. Powell (Michelle) and David A. Powell (Kerry); 6 grandsons; 2 great-grandsons; sister, Carol T. Sims (Stan); brothers, William ‘Billy’ G. Spears (Betty) and John A. Spears (Jan, deceased), all of Huntsville and the surrounding area and several nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Faith Presbyterian Church, 5003 Whitesburg Dr., Huntsville, AL on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. with a reception to follow in the Fellowship Hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Faith Presbyterian Church or the Huntsville Humane Society.
