Bernice Johnnie Powell

Bernice J. Powell, 81, of Claxton died Sunday, August 16, 2015, at Memorial Medical Center in Savannah. Born in Collins, the son of Matthew and Inez Holland Powell, he was a graduate of Collins High School and served in the Air National Guard. He had lived most of his life in Claxton. Bernice retired after 34 years as an agent with Southland Life Insurance where he received several Agent of the Year awards. In high school, he began singing tenor in a gospel quartet. In later years, they became the Hymnsmen where they travelled all over the south eastern United States recording albums and singing concerts for 58 years. On one of their first concerts, he met Betty Hodges, who became his wife and biggest supporter. Bernice was an avid fisherman and hunter. His last years were spent hauling and sharing produce enjoying friends along the way.

Preceding him in death was his wife of 58 years, Betty Hodges Powell and his beloved daughter, Patti Powell; his parents; five siblings, Howard and Rabun Powell, Wilma P. Meeks, Audrey P. Hill and Lucy P. Smith.

Survivors are a daughter and son-in-law, Dianne and Jimmy Morris; two grandchildren, Laci B. and husband, Daniel McEachin and Brandon Boyett; two great grandchildren, Austin and Logan McEachin all of Claxton; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, 11:00 am, at Pine Grove Baptist Church near Collins with Elder Lee Price and Rev. Jim Rogers officiating. Burial will be in the Cedar Creek Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday, 6-8 pm, at the funeral home. The body will lie in state at the church one hour prior to the service. Pallbearers will be Stan Hill, Rufus Powell, Don Powell, Billy Hill, Jimmy Meeks, Mark Tootle and Joey Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be all former members of the Hymnsmen Quartet. Remembrances may be made to the Evans County C.A.R.E.S., POB 247 Claxton, Georgia, 30417. Guest book: www.kennedyfuneralhomes.com.

Kennedy Funeral Homes, Cobbtown Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

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