Dr. Richard (Rich) Warren Powell's Obituary
Dr. Richard (Rich) Warren Powell, age 77, of Germantown, TN passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, July 3, 2025. He was the son of Russell and Marie Powell, and was raised in Newton and Des Moines, IA where he attended North High School. Rich went on to earn his undergraduate and master’s degrees from Drake University, and later achieved his doctorate from Ohio University. Rich worked as a psychologist for Woodward State Hospital School in Woodward, IA. On October 18, 1986 he married the love of his life, Ellen M. Ketter at the Basilica of St John’s Catholic Church in Des Moines. The couple later moved to Marietta, OH where they were blessed with three beautiful children. Rich’s dedication as a father was one of his greatest sources of pride. His children remember him as a man of intelligence, humor, and unwavering support. He was an avid storyteller to entertain family and friends. Rich had many hobbies and interests - including sailboat racing (in which he won numerous awards), flying with Civil Air Patrol, dog sledding, Boy Scouting and Sea Scouting, cycling, gardening, coaching, camping, and enthusiastically joining his children with all their hobbies and interests. The Powell family eventually settled in Springfield, IL before moving to Memphis, TN where Rich continued to work as a psychologist and behavior analyst. He fulfilled a lifelong dream of being an author and became a proud member of Malice In Memphis A Killer Writing Club. He was a finalist for the Darrell Award in 2018 for Best Midsouth Short Story. He has authored and published at least 23 books. Above all, Rich will be remembered for his brilliant mind, warm heart, and dedication to his family. Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Marie Powell. Rich is survived by his devoted wife, Ellen of 38 years, their children, Nathan Powell of Atlanta, GA, David Powell of Memphis, TN, Erica Powell of Memphis, TN: his grandson Dalton, his brother Tom (Debbie) Powell of Katy, TX, his sister Becky (Reed) Powell-Rennacker of North Liberty, IA, and six nieces and nephews. The Powell family expresses deep gratitude to medical personnel and support services for their care and kindness. Visitation will be at 10 am, and Service will be at 11 am on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery. Flowers may be sent to Memorial Park.
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