Gordon "Specs" Powell

Gordon "Specs" Powell

Gordon Powell Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Sep. 20, 2007.
SAN DIEGO (AP) - Jazz drummer Gordon "Specs" Powell, who recorded with Billie Holiday and played for "The Ed Sullivan Show" as part of the CBS network orchestra, has died. He was 85.

Powell, who died Saturday of complications from kidney disease, also had heart trouble. He died at a care center near his home in the northern San Diego County suburb of San Marcos, according to his son, Ted Smith.

Powell began his career doubling as a pianist, but rose to fame as a drummer during the swing era and became a fixture on the 52nd Street jazz scene in New York.

In 1943, he was hired by CBS, becoming one of the first black musicians to play for a national network.

Powell was a versatile percussionist who carried a kit filled with castanets, clickers and other noisemakers he referred to as his "bag of tricks."

Powell was born in New York on June 5, 1922.

Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press

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May 15, 2021

Peggy Seats posted to the memorial.

December 25, 2010

marcy andrez posted to the memorial.

December 25, 2010

Marcy Andrez posted to the memorial.

105 Entries

Peggy Seats

May 15, 2021

Mr. Powell, after reading more in the comment section, I learned, was only 21 years old when he started playing for the Ed Sullivan Show, in the early 1940s.

What a TRAILBLAZING Genius! RIP..... both you and my Friend, your uber talented daughter, Tina Allen.

Both of you are sorely missed, and though Tina always referred to me as the other Peggy, hopefully one day we will meet....... Peggy (smile).

And, of course,,Tina LOVED THE BOTH of you two so much, and spoke of YOU TWO LOVEBIRDS OFTEN. I FELT AS THOUGH I KNEW YOU ALL; AND, AS YOU WELL KNOW, TINA'S PERSONALITY WAS AS LARGE AS HER AMAZING TALENT...... JUST LIKE HER DADDY.

PEACE & LOVE

marcy andrez

December 25, 2010

Chilling to see her make an entry in May and depart in Sept. I worked with Tina on "Black Focus" and saw her in Vegas at the unveiling in 2000.

Marcy Andrez

December 25, 2010

It's chilling to see Tina's comment in May 2008 and her departure in December.

Dean Christopher

April 2, 2009

I was lucky enough to work with Specs in recording studios during the late 60s, and can't tell you what confidence it gave a young arranger/conductor to know that the percussion section was always under control! Unfailingy cheerful, professional and humble, despite his virtuosity, he was a joy to work with. Although we were not close friends, I do remember one wonderful afternoon spent at his apartment in NY. It was at that time that he stressed upon me the importance of being "a thinker, a deep thinker, a good thinker," and said that it would always help me through difficulties. I can't tell you how often I have thought of that over the years. So let's add to Specs's other attributes the fact that, whether he knew it or not, he was also a teacher, and a good one. He taught also by example. God bless you Specs, we will meet again, I have no doubt. Dean Christopher

TINA ALLEN

May 8, 2008

I MISS YOU DAD, I MISS YOU DAD

Paula Williams Morris

March 3, 2008

I remember my mother, Maxine Sullivan taking me to his home in 1949 to a barbeque in New York. I was 4 years old and his daughter Donna was a little younger. We along with other children played with his xylophone and other percussion instruments. Attending this party was a very young Sydney Portier. My deepest condolences to the family. Mr. Powell made it possible for other African American musicians to get into the studios. I have seen him recently on reruns of, "What's My Line," on the GSN.

John & Rhonda Phillips

October 28, 2007

We offer our sincere condolences on the lost of 'Specs' Powell. We truly loved 'Specs'. What we found to be most interesting was his humbleness, considering his influences in the music industry. We continue to say a special prayer for the family.

Hank Kohout, Jr.

October 15, 2007

I heard countless stories over the years from my dad about Mr.Powell, both as a great musician and an even greater man. The Kohout family expresses our sincere sorrow at his passing, and our deepest sympathy to the Powell family and all those who knew and will miss him.

Teresa Jenkins

October 11, 2007

My sympathy to the entire Powell family. God Bless you Dad, you and Gordon are together again and I'm sure it's something to behold! Your spirit will be missed. Love you...

Rodney A. Barefield

October 8, 2007

To Sister Mosley and Family, Praying for you and your family.
To Mama Powell, words are often hard to find and express to one who has lost their mate, but remember, there is a God that knows our every hurt and pain. Praying that you are able to draw strength from HIM. God bless you and keep you in Jesus' name.

Myron & Christobis Gray

October 6, 2007

Our sincere condolences to Mama Powell and the family for such a significant loss. Mr. Powell made such wonderful contributions to life and the enrichment of others. We shall always remember him with deepest gratitude for pioneering, representing and causing perpetuation of opportunity for African Americans in the fine arts with integrity and professionalism.

Peter Byrd

October 3, 2007

Your father was an extraordinary musician and his talent, like yours, Tina, is timeless and relevant. Love to you all.

Sister Donna Scott

October 3, 2007

There is no sorrow that heaven can not heal. Not just words, but a power to live by as you journey through your lost. Donna, Helen, Linda and Sarah may the grace of God meet you in your lowest place and elevate your spirit beyond the pain. With all that lives in me, I express my heartfelt condolence to you and all of your family.

To you Momma Powell, hang in there and know that you have a hedge of prayer surrounding your being. Lean on the strength of the Saints and rest in the assurance that the Victory belongs to you. Cry if you must, but always remember the good times and celebrate those forever.

John Springer 11 DDS

October 2, 2007

I knew Mr. Gordon " Specs " Powell as a loving father to Tina, with, love, overwhelming pride and pleasure exuding from his eyes,at each of the sculpture unveilings I had the pleasure of seeing him.The fact that he has a great legacy in music speaks volumes for his character.

Harold Crumpton

October 2, 2007

Your many friends at the St. Louis, MO NAACP were so sorry to hear of your loss. Your husband and Donna's Father was a real trailblazer for African Americans everywhere and will long be remembered. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time. Remember, he lives forever in his music and in the musicians and admirers he influenced. Count us among them. Harold Crumpton, President of the St. Louis, MO Branch NAACP.

Roy Bland

October 1, 2007

The influence of "Specs'" music & playing percussions has influenced my diligence in my playing percussions. Even though there have been other instruments of interest my heart's devotion is in percussions and of course those "Little Bag of Tricks." An inspiration....mere words can't express my thanks and appreciation for all of the sharing and contribution "Specs" has been to me.
Love you All!!!
Peggy, Tina, Teddy, Donna, and Grandchildren.
(Helen, Sarah, and Linda)

COMPLETELY SURPRISED PEGGY LOVINGLY ACCEPTS THE AWARD,

October 1, 2007

SPECS, DEDICATES AND GIVES HIS AWARD TO HIS WIFE AND BEST FRIEND PEGGY,

October 1, 2007

TED AND DAD AT AWARD CEREMONY 2006

October 1, 2007

THANKSGIVEN DINNER AT DAUGHTER TINA WERE ALWAYS FUN , DAD AT THE HEAD OF THE TABLE, LADY PEG AT HIS SIDE

October 1, 2007

SPECS AND HIS GREAT GRAND SON , WARREN BUTLER , JOSEPHINE'S SON

October 1, 2007

beloved step-son of Specs, Theodore Smith III,successful District Attorney San Bernadino,CA.

October 1, 2007

Grand son Koryan Allen , with business partner in Japan

October 1, 2007

Grand Daughter Josephine Allen,PHD. candiate 2008 Northwestern Unversity, Tina's daughter

October 1, 2007

Grand Daughter Rosecleer Powell ,receives her degree with honors,

October 1, 2007

Great Grand son Gregory Isaiah, son of Sarah Mosley,daugher of Donna Powell Mosley

October 1, 2007

Grand Daughter of Specs, Helen mosley, Donna's daughter

October 1, 2007

Linda Diane Mosley

October 1, 2007

Hey grandpa, how u doin? Fine Im guessin. I know that you're out of pain now...I dont want to get to emotional because i know i have to be strong for the family and grandma. I wish i had more time with you but i most definitely have lots of memories. I remember one time in peticular that me, helen, and sarah always joke about..It was the time you made us sit down and watch that TV show Survivor (after a loooong day)...i remember you were so mad when that guy didn't win, lol. You look handsome in your pic by the way. I wish you would've had time to meet Joale Ilene..she's so cute..she looks like my mom. Iam so proud of you and the fight in you that you've sustained for soo long. Even though we never have talked as much recently, i still feel like im close to you. I apologize for never sending enough pictures to you and grandma but i promise i will try harder. I can't morn your passing because I'd rather celebrate your triumph. Wow, you did a lot in your time...I had no idea about the brackets. I finally had time to listen to some of your music a couple years back... i typed in Specs Powell and they had a little stippet from an album...it was ammmmazzzing. Well grandad i know this is the time where you're resting so I'll just go ahead and let you rest...see you later..Love You..ohy by the way the pic below is your grandaughter:
Joale Ilene Mosley-Brown

Eric Graham

September 30, 2007

I met Specs 60 years ago and have found him to be a kind and generous person. I was then a young student and he was married to my cousin, Rose Claire. He was always inspirational to me and I will miss him.

Helen Marie Mosley

September 30, 2007

Dear Grandpa,

I love you so much!!! and I miss you already...I look at your picture everyday that's been hanging in my apartment and I wish I could see you just one, more, time.... but I know you are at peace and with God, so I'll be okay...You were so strong and such a beautiful example of a leader, visionary and role model. I will make sure I continue to grow and become everything I know you would want me to be. I know you're watching me now, and I won't disappoint you!..Your musical genius is definitely in my blood and everytime I sing, write or perform a song, I will do it in excellence because I know that is how you always did! I miss your hugs, I miss your smile, and most of all I miss the fact that I could not be with you more but I know you would not want me to say alot of "should've, could've, would haves" so what I will say is that I WILL make you proud, I WILL remember you always, and when I get married and have children one day, I assure you that your great legacy and spirit will continue to impact and mold our family's rich history! I love you, I miss you, but I know we'll see each other again Grandpa....

Lamon (Faruq) Fenner

September 30, 2007

Master drummer Gordon "Specs" Powell is now reunited with his son, Master Gordon Powell Jr., "The Lord of the Realm." I remember the Thanksgiving dinners I have shared with "Specs" and the family in St. Albans, Queens back in the day. I am truly honored and blessed to be an extended member of the Powell family. We share many memories together. I love you all, as my deepest condolences go out to the most Honorable Gordon "Specs" Powell.

Blessings, Lamon Fenner aka FARUQ

Shawn Bivens

September 30, 2007

Tina:
Please accept my deepest sympathy. I "met" your father, Gordon "Specs" Powell while interviewing you for my book, Mobile, Alabama's People of Color: A Tricentennial History, 1702-2002. Your entry helped to preserve the legacy of this American music icon.

Carl E. Mayhorn

September 30, 2007

To Gordon "Spec" Powell's family:

“You shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.” John 16:20

Please accept my condolences on the loss of your loved one.
You are in my thoughts and prayers for strength & comfort.

The Greene Family

September 28, 2007

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.

Christmas 2006

Natasha Lawson

September 27, 2007

I was blessed to have known Gordon Powell whom I only knew as Grandpa Powell. I will miss his smile, his nickname for me, his hugs, his kisses and the way he looked at me in admiration. He was my grandfather by marriage but my heart never knew the difference. Tears stream down my face as I write this and that is my heart missing him still. My kids will always know him as thier great grandfather and what accomplishments can be achieved if you put your heart and soul into it. Grandpa powell would have wanted it that way.

To Grandma Powell, I admire your strength during this time and love you dearly.

Love,
Tasha

Diana Lewis

September 27, 2007

To My Dear Friend and Sister in the Lord, Donna, to Helen, Linda, Sarah and the grandbabies, to Ms. Tina Allen, Teddy Smith and Mrs. Peggy Powell: I want to express my deepest sympathy to you all at this very difficult time. Donna even though we don't have as much time as we used to for each other I hope you know that you will always be my "buddy" and what do buddies do? We lean on one another. We all will have to sit where you sit now but we comfort each other knowing that when you weep I weep, when you cry I cry and when we rejoice we also do that together. God has promised that Joy will come in the morning and my prayer is that your morning comes soon. Know that my ear is near and by heart is open for whatever you might need. Just remember God makes no mistakes and He cares about how we feel. Rest in knowing that you are loved and you and your entire family are in the prayers of your St. Louis family.

Love you much!!!

Barbara Cole

September 27, 2007

Dear Sister Peggy, Tina , Teddy amd Evamgelist Donna,
In behalf of our Diocesan, Bishop Alphonso Scott, Chairman Suffragan Bishop John Pettiford and the entire Midwestern District Council,
We wish to express to all of you our sincerest sympathy in the loss of your beloved relatvie. Our Council will bombard heaven in your behalf and want you to know that God is aware of every tear. He has said "Blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted.
Will you please lean upon Him and look to Him during this time?Please know that you will be remembered daily by us in prayer.
God's richest blessings be upon in the Name of Jesus!
Because of Calvary,
Bishop Alphonso Scott, Diocesan
Suffragam Bishop John Pettiford, Chairman
Evangelist Barbara Cole, Gemeral Secretary

Patricia Baucom

September 27, 2007

To Sister Donna Mosley and the Powell family - my prayers are with you. Just the little bit I heard about Gordon Powell left me impress, he was a good man. I wouldn't tell you not to cry, but God wanted me to tell you, think about all the joy your husband and father has brought into your life. That's the joy that can live in your hearts forever.

Jessie Willett

September 27, 2007

Dear Peggy,
I am glad I got to see Mr Powell at Roseclear graduation. May god bless you and your family. He is in a better place now.

FAYE EDWARDS

September 26, 2007

TO DONNA AND YOUR family,
PRAISE THE LORD

I, AM SO SORRY TO HEAR
ABOUT, THE LOST OF YOUR LOVE ONE,

THOUGH YOU HAVE LOST SOMEONE SO SPECIAL, AND YOUR SORROW IS SO DEEP, MAY YOU FIND TRUE CONSOLATION IN THE MEMORICE YOU KEEP.

REMEMBER THAT GOD OPENS HIS HEART AND OPEN HIS ARMS YOU ARE NOT ALONE, HE IS WITH YOU AND SO ARE WE.
WE ARE PRAYING FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

YOUR SIS.IN CHRIST

Francene Weathersby

September 26, 2007

Donna and family your father and a beloved husband was a gift from God. He will be missed. Mrs. Gordon may the favor and wisdom of God always abide with you and your beautiful family, continue to look up and be encouraged with the love of God flowing in and thru your hearts. Thank you for sharing your wonderful husband with all people.

Beverly Bankston

September 26, 2007

Donna and family you are in my prayers. Remember to look to God. He is able and willing to give comfort and peace. I pray He will strengthen each of you for the road ahead.

PEGGY POWELL, THE LOVE OF SPECS LIFE AND THEODORE SMITH , MUCH LOVED SPECS STEP-SON, FAITHFUL TO THE END

September 26, 2007

SPECS GREAT GRANDSON,GREGORY ISIAH, SON OF SARAH MOSLEY

September 25, 2007

SPECS GREAT GRANDSON, WARREN ALLEN BUTLER III, SON OF JOSEPHINE

September 25, 2007

SPECS GREAT GRANDSON, DAVID ALLEN MILLHOUSE, TARA'S SON

September 25, 2007

Connye Moore-Richardson

September 25, 2007

My deepest condolences to the Family of Gordon "Specs" Powell

I first met Tina Powell Allen, her father Specs and his wife, Peggy, in 1986 as Tina was at the beginning of her career as a renowned and famous sculptor. But, it was not until the 1990s that I began to know Specs as the gifted, talented and extraordinary musician he was throughout his lifetime. He was so unassuming and modest, one would not have known. He was always there to support Tina and lift her up. He was simply Tina's Dad.

My heartfelt sympathies go out to his wife Peggy and her son Teddy
Smith III, the loving stepson of Specs; his two daughters with his first wife, Rosecleer Hurley Powell; Tina Powell Allen and Donna
Powell Mosley; his grandchildren,
Koryan Allen, Josie Allen, Tara Allen Millhouse; his great grandchildren, Warren Allen Butler,
David Allen Millhouse, Joale Brown and Gregory, better known as Isaiah.

His son, Gordon Augustus Powell, Jr. preceded his father in death and although I did not have the opportunity to meet him throughout the years, I feel as though I knew him and his children, Spec's grand children, Athena Powell and Rosecleer Powell because Tina would always speak of them.

I will miss seeing Specs' friendly
"cherub" face at celebrations, parties at Tina's and at the unveilings that are to come. I will miss greeting Specs with a
hello "Buddy".

Farewell to Specs and may God comfort his family in this time of loss. My love to you all.

Connye Moore-Richardson

SPECS, AND GOOD FRIEND ALTOVISE DAVIS

September 25, 2007

MY DAD LOVED TO PARTY WITH ME ,SHELIA FRAZER ,SPECS POWELL, DAUGHTER TINA ALLEN ,BEVERY TODD,DICK ANTONY WILLIAM

September 25, 2007

PHOTO OF GRAND DAUGHTER ,JOSEPHINE ALLEN, PHOTO BY SPECS POWELL

September 25, 2007

SPECS , GRAND DAUGHTERS, HELEN MOSLEY, SARAH MOSLEY, LINDA MOSLEY, CHILDREN OF DONNA POWELL MOSLEY

September 25, 2007

PHOTO BY SPECS POWELL, WE WERE A TEAM ,MY SCULPTURES HIS PHOTOS

September 25, 2007

MY DAD , SPECS WAS A GREAT PHOTOGRAPHER, HE TOOK THIS PHOTO OF MY ICON SCULPTURE

September 25, 2007

ONLY GRAND SON , KORYAN MICHEAL ALLEN,SON OF TINA POWELL ALLEN

September 25, 2007

GREAT GRANDSONS , TARA'S SON DAVID, AND JOSEPHINE'S SON WARREN

September 25, 2007

GRAND DAUGHTER , ATHENA POWELL, DAUGHTER OF GORDON POWELL JR.

September 25, 2007

GRAND DAUGHTER ROSECLEER POWELL AND PICTURE OF HER FATHER , GORDON POWELL JR.

September 25, 2007

CHILDREN OF TINA POWELL ALLEN, TARA MILLHOUSE, KORYAN MICHEAL ALLEN , JOSEPHINE ALLEN

September 25, 2007

TINA POWELL ALLEN SCULPTOR, DAUGHTER OF GORDON SPECS POWELL, AND ROSECLEER HURLEY POWELL ,AT THE HOMEWGOING SERVICE

September 25, 2007

DAUGHTER DONNA POWELL AND HER DAD AT HER WEDDING DAY

September 25, 2007

GORDON AUGUSTUS POWELL JR. [ DECEASED 2004] SON OF SPECS POWELL AND ROSECLEER HURLEY POWELL

September 25, 2007

SPECS POWELL WITH RAY BLOCH AT ED SULLIVAN SHOW 1950

September 25, 2007

SPECS POWELL 1948

September 25, 2007

SPECS ON HIS WAY TO WORK AT CBS

September 25, 2007

SPECS , TWO DAUGHTERS , DONNA POWELL MOSLEY, AND TINA POWELL ALLEN

September 25, 2007

Christella Benson

September 25, 2007

Donna and Family,
May the Love of God and His Wonderful Peace sustain you as you grieve your loved one.

September 25, 2007

Dear Peggy, Tina & family,

Gordon “Specs” Powell was a phenomena -- husband, father, artist, innovator, leader, legend. Every group is carried by the rhythm of percussion, by the rhythm of life -- from the soulful jazz ensemble to the vital organs pulsating to the percussive beat of the heart. Specs Powell’s heart beat the tribal rhythms that was the foundation of his family, and there was so much love that it spilled over onto the world.

In loving sympathy,

Roneyah Wynter

September 24, 2007

September 24, 2007

Maria Castillo

September 24, 2007

Gordon was a really kind and very loving man. I remember first meeting him at the yogurt shop and knowing right away that he was a great guy. Even after I learned about all his achievements in life I was still in awe of him. I always had an urge to hug him. He'll be deeply missed.

September 24, 2007

September 24, 2007

Tua Dunham

September 24, 2007

Dear Peggy,

May God hold in the hollow of his hands as you grieve for OUR loss. I was fortunate to have known Specs through my sister Nina. What a "great guy" he was. An inprational father / grandfather not only to his own kids but even to those that had the good fortune to meet him. I will miss his happy disposition even when his illness began to consume his health. I will remember him that way. God Bless you and be comforted in knowing he has gone to a better place. I'm a phone call away.

Sincerely,

Tiffany Franklin

September 24, 2007

Peggy,

Mr. Powell will be missed.We enjoyed laughing with him and talking with him about his past.He always gave great hugs and a warm smile. He is sharing that with god now. May his music play on forever.

God Bless You,

Tiffany & Mauchese Franklin

Straus

September 24, 2007

Dear Peggy:

You and Specs are part of our family. Those wonderful pictures that Specs took of our family at your home so many years ago have been beautifully hanging in our front room and they will continue to hang there as long as our family lives.

I loved the times we spent together with real estate, ice cream or just talking.

I feel soooo bad that I haven't seen you too during the recent past.

Our hearts and our prayers go out to you and your family.

Love, Corky, Patti and Blake Straus - THE HOUSE OF STRAUS -

RAYMOND AND ROSE SCOTT POWELL 1920, THIS IS MY FATHER'S SPECS PARENTS

September 24, 2007

SPECS AT A FAMILY PARTY

September 24, 2007

PALMS SPRINGS FAMILY VACATION

September 24, 2007

CONSTANCE MATTHEWS, SPECS BIOGRAPHER

September 24, 2007

SPECS AND PEGGY WITH FRIENDS

September 24, 2007

SPECS AND PEGGY AFTER 42 YEARS TOGETHER

September 24, 2007

SPECS AND PEGGY RENEW THEIR VOWS 2006

September 24, 2007

SPECS AND PEGGY ENJOY FAMILY DINNER

September 24, 2007

SPECS AND PEGGY POWELL

September 24, 2007

Marla gibbs

September 23, 2007

Your drums and stand arde waitingfor you .God's orchestra. is waiting to hear. your music the orchestra is notg complee without you.We are crying. But you are smiling and ha' what's important. It's what we all wish for you.Happy journey. Love Marla!

Bobbie Knight & Gary Burley

September 23, 2007

Dear Specs, we are happy you were here so Tina could be. We have experienced knowing you through her. Your legacy lives on.

Peggy Seats

September 22, 2007

Dear Specs,

I didn't have the pleasure of
meeting you personally, only
through your daughter, Tina.

A more loved Dad could never be,
so I know that you were love and
that you leave a marvelous and
creative family tree.

Rest and Peace,

Your wife's namesake,
the other Peggy
as Tina would say.


Peggy Seats

Bridget Leary-Pesce

September 21, 2007

Specs was like a father to me. I was fortunate enough to work with both he and Peggy for 6 years at Paradise Yogurt. He was a wonderful man with a smile that could light up the room. His laugh was like music. I will always remember him sitting in the back room, watching "his girls" on the video monitor and listening to Dr. Laura on the radio (something we would all tease him about).

Specs always wanted to know all about how I was doing in college and if I was eating enough like any good father would. We would know when he meant business if he called Peggy "Margaret". They were such a beautiful example of what marriage should be.

I lost my own father just 2 weeks ago at the young age of 64. He was an amazing man as well and often told me how comforted he felt knowing Specs and Peggy were watching over me since he and my mom were far away in Sacramento. My dad learned he was in the beginning stages of leukemia one Tuesday and was dead exactly a week later. We don't always know why we have to lose the people we love so soon, but I do not question that God needed them at this time. I feel a sense of peace knowing that Specs is keeping my Dad company in Heaven.

Peggy, I love you and am so sorry for your loss. I think of you two all the time with a smile on my face. You truly have been a huge impact in my life and becoming the woman I am today. You will be in my prayers during this difficult time. Please write me if you would like to talk because I miss you very much.

VELMA DUENAS

September 21, 2007

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Beverly Watkins

September 21, 2007

I do not remember hearing of Mr. Powell, but if he was on the Ed Sullivans Show, I'm sure I've seen him.

I will keep his family in my thoughts and prayers.

Rest In Peace Mr. Gordon "Specs" Powell!

Christine Gibson

September 21, 2007

Family and Friends

God speed to Specs. He now has eternal life!
Sincerely

Elwyn Walshe

September 20, 2007

I met "Specs" when I was producing commercials on the Jackie Gleason Show. He was in the Ray Bloch Orchestra. As he did with so many people...we became friends. He took me with him on a number of occasions after the show up to Harlem and some of the clubs where he was a celebrity to say the least. A great musician and gentleman. I was proud to know him and will never forget our friendship.

Sheila Smith

September 20, 2007

Rest in Peace Gordon.

Anonymous

September 20, 2007

God has one more drummer and percussionist for his Heavenly band!

God bless the Powell family and comfort them for the loss of their loved one.

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May 15, 2021

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