Photo courtesy of Chadwick Funeral and Cremation Service, LLC - New London
New London, New Hampshire
1940 - 2022
James “Jim” Murphy Powell passed away peacefully, with family by his side, on April 25, 2022, after suffering a stroke.
Jim was born in 1940 in Danville, Virginia, to parents Harvey and Peggy (Barker) Powell. His father was a bus driver and young Jim got to know the city of Danville riding along on his route, honing his innate sense of direction. Jim was never lost a day in his life.
Upon graduating high school Jim enlisted in the Navy and was able to see much of the world. He loved to explore while on shore leave with his camera. When the Bay of Pigs got heated in 1961, Jim had front row seats from the ship on which he was stationed. After leaving the Navy, Jim went to work for IBM in the Washington DC area. It was there that he saw Martin Luther King, Jr. deliver his “I Have a Dream” speech.
During his long career with IBM, Jim continued to travel extensively. He recalled his two years working in Japan fondly, especially nights out in Tokyo with his Japanese counterparts. Upon retirement Jim continued his adventure with his wife Linda by his side. They moved together to Newbury, New Hampshire where they joined the Bradford Volunteer Rescue Squad, serving for 12 years. Jim was active on several boards and committees and was elected five times to serve on the Newbury Select Board.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Linda, his sister Rebecca Buchanan, his son Jonathon (Jessica), granddaughter Talia, his daughter Pamela Gibson (James), grandchildren Samuel, Jared and Claire, and many other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Douglas Powell and wife Rosalie.
A celebration of Jim's life will be held on Saturday, May 21, 2022 at 1:00 P.M. at the Newbury Veterans Hall, 944 NH Route 103, Newbury, NH.. In honor of Jim, donations may be made to one of the many worthy organizations supporting our Veterans.
I will miss Jim's steadiness and willingness to work on the taxpayers of NH's behalf. God Bless Linda and may you be comforted by friends and family.
Harriet Cady
June 11, 2022
Linda, so sorry to just hear of Jim's passing. We will miss seeing you both on our visits to Newbury
Kris & Al Retter
June 04, 2022 | Other
Linda, I am forever grateful to the support you and Jim provided in my effort to revise the KRSD Charter to give the voters equal opportunity upon the "official ballot". Jim's sudden passing came as a profound shock.
CHARLES FORSBERG
May 21, 2022 | North Sutton, NH | Friend
Linda, I was stunned and saddened to hear of Jim's passing. My sincere sympathy is with you and your family.
Jane Aitken
May 10, 2022 | Friend
Linda, I am so sorry for the loss of your dear Jim. He has been such a pleasure to work with. I know he will be missed by many.
Janet Lizotte
May 10, 2022 | Work
Jim was one of the first town officials I met upon moving to Newbury. He made me feel welcome and encouraged my involvement in the town. More than competent as a selectboard member, warm, thoughtful. Jim's spirit of inclusiveness was a bright light in small-town life. He has been missed since stepping down from the selectboard. Now the town's and our personal loss is even greater. Condolences to Linda.
Liz Tentarelli
May 05, 2022 | Newbury, NH
Mr. Powell, Thank you for your service RDM Windham NH
Robert D Machain
May 02, 2022 | Friend
Sorry for your loss Linda and Jim's children -- Jim was a unique, intelligent
and great person who will be missed by many people. Joan Fulton, Litchfield
Joan Fulton
May 02, 2022 | Litchfield, NH | Friend
I’ve begun and erased 4 times, all attempts too long. Jim was balanced and caring, served his country and his town, and he lived and loved well. A great man with a great laugh. I loved him and I will miss him. My heart is breaking for you Linda. I’m here for any small thing I can do. Love & hugs, Cynthia Marple
Cynthia Marple
May 01, 2022 | Concord, NH | Friend
