Richard Lee Powers
1934-2019
Richard Lee Powers, Edmond, Oklahoma was born June 2, 1934 to Roy Powers and Virda Scheer Powers in Maramec, Oklahoma. He stepped into his new life on November 29, 2019 at the age of 85.
Richard graduated from Maramec High School in 1952, and married Cora Mae Roberts in 1953. He attended Draughon School of Business and Cameron University in Lawton, and lacked just a few hours on his undergraduate degree.
Richard worked as a bookkeeper for the Santa Fe Aitchison Railroad from 1953 to 1958. Shortly afterwards, he began working for Sherwin Williams with the opening of their paint store in Duncan, Oklahoma. He was later transferred to Independence, Missouri and later to Lincoln, Nebraska. He moved back to Oklahoma where he worked for Glidden Paint, until his retirement.
With his love of the railroad, he collected all kinds of memorabilia and trains. He loved doing woodwork and especially making clocks, which he gave away to those who were lucky enough to be on the receiving end.
He was a member of the First United Methodist church where he taught Senior Adults for several years. At one time he was the only male in the class. The church lovingly referred to his class as Richard’s harem. As long as he was able, Richard also attended mission trips with his church where they provided for the less fortunate.
Richard’s kind and tender heart lead him to become a volunteer for hospice, sitting with those in need during their final hours. He also volunteered for several years with Whiz Kids in Oklahoma City where he was became a literacy mentor/tutor for under resourced kids.
Richard is survived by one son, James Robert Powers (Gina), of Overland Park, Kansas; 1 sister, Virginia Averill of Oklahoma City; 5 grandchildren: Ed Thiel, Louise Maring, Wendy Golden, Amanda Powers and Jerod Powers. He also leaves behind 5 great grandchildren and 1 great-great granddaughter; and one uncle, DeWayne Powers (Carolyn). He is also survived by two dear friends, Bill Mickelsen and Sue Hite.
Richard was preceded in death by the mother of his children, Cora Mae Roberts Powers, one daughter, Roberta Theil, one great grandson, Logan Maring, as well as his parents and many aunts and uncles.
The family wishes to extend our sincerest thanks to Gregory Parker, M.D. and staff for treating Richard, the man, and not just his cancer. We truly believe he was in our lives longer because of the care and treatment provided by you and your team. Also a special thanks to TenderCare Hospice for making Richard’s final days as peaceful and comfortable as possible, and for working so hard to fulfill his wishes to remain in his home throughout his illness. Nurse Jackie and Chaplin Johnny Wray, you were special lights sent to Richard during his toughest days.
Services will be Friday, December 6, at 10 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 305 East Hurd Street, Edmond, OK 73034. Viewing will be Thursday, December 5 from Noon until 8 p.m. at Matthews Funeral Home, 601 S Kelly Ave, Edmond, OK 73003. Honorary pallbearers will be his Sunday School Class and the Over the Hill Gang, who breakfasted together each Wednesday. Graveside services will be at 3 p.m. at the Lawson Cemetery in Yale, Oklahoma.