Obituary of Bennett L. Powell

Bennett “Benny” L. Powell, 75, husband of Patricia Powell, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 9, 2024. He was the son of the late Mitchell and Lois Herman Powell. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Anna Belle Gee.

Benny was a 1967 graduate of William Byrd High School. He worked for Norfolk Southern Railroad for more than 40 years. His passion was the Vinton Volunteer Fire Department where he became the mascot in 1964 and a member in 1965, all while still in high school. Benny would go on to become Chief in 1995 and held that position until 2011, after which he remained an active honorary member until the time of his passing.

He enjoyed anything to do with the outdoors, especially family beach trips to Ocean Isle, North Carolina. He loved beach music and hanging out with his Budweiser Buddy’s at Bob’s in Vinton, and was an avid UVA Wahoo fan. Benny was especially proud to watch his grandchildren participate in sports and dance.

In addition to his wife of 55 years, Patricia “Pat” Powell, he will be missed and remembered by his daughters, Kristy Hodges and Kara Shafer (Jason); grandchildren, Trey Shafer, Noah Shafer, Mitchell Hodges, Heidi Knight, Madelyn Shafer, and Clayton Hodges; sister, Barbara Williams; as well as numerous other family and friends.

A Celebration of Life service to honor Benny will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Thrasher United Methodist Church in Vinton with Rev. Rob Colwell, Michael Catron and Gary Houff officiating. There will be a time of gathering following the service.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorial donations be made to Three Oaks Fellowship United Methodist Church, 1032 Gravel Hill Road, Vinton, VA 24179.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to www.simpsonfuneral.com