Photo courtesy of Allen Funeral Home, Inc. - Wylie
Dallas, Texas
1939 - 2014 (Age 74)
MICHAEL RICHARD POWERS was born in Jackson MS, June 1, 1939 and passed away in Wylie TX February 15, 2014 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents Edward Joseph Powers and Berta Louise Powers (McKinley) of Jackson.
Mike graduated from St. Joseph Catholic High School in Jackson MS and received his BS degree from Mississippi State University. After graduation, Mike entered the corporate arena in sales, and was with Intergraph Corp. for 30 years. Mike retired in 1997 and bought a pecan farm in the Mississippi Delta where he grew pecans and had a pecan candy company. He thoroughly enjoyed working on his farm and selling his pecans at the Memphis Farmers Market. His big smile, cowboy hat and laugh will always be remembered as he asked ?Have you had your pecan today??
Michael?s wife, Suzanne Powers (Speed), was by his side when he died. Mike was blessed to have a loving family, and his children Mike Powers Jr. and Dana Gilbert (Russell), will miss him dearly, as will his grandchildren ? James, Chandler, Addison and Worth Gilbert.
A Memorial Mass is scheduled for February 24, 2014 at 10:00 am at St. Marks the Evangelist Catholic Church, 1201 Alma Rd. Plano TX, with a reception to follow.
It was Michael?s wish to donate his body to UTSouthwestern Medical School, in Dallas, so In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to UTSouthwestern Simmons Cancer Center (Dallas), St. Jude Children?s Research Hospital (Memphis) or an animal shelter or charity of your choice.
Mike was my "brown eyed handsome man" and we were girlfriend/boyfriend our senior yr. He had that twinkle in his eyes, big "roar" on the football field, yet a quiet gentle and quiet voice in many situations. He will be missed and Suzanne, you had the best. He was the one that thought I should be called "Lucy" at the ripe old age of 16. Those were the fun years with Mike in the fun class of 1958. Lucy Phillips, Columbus, Mississippi
February 26, 2014
Although I didn't know Mike that well, I did know him through my "Big" sister Elvie.Thank you Mike for being instrumental in contributing to the memorable experiences of high school and beyond!May God comfort the family and those that knew and loved him with His peace and strength.
Marinella Gonzales Davis
February 25, 2014 | Jackson, MS
I have so many fond memories of Mike. He was the unforgettable type who made lasting impressions. I was fortunate to have been on the 1957 undefeated, conference champion football team with him at St Joe. His athletic prowess led to him being named co-captain of the team his Sr. year.
His good nature, charm and business acumen were some of his best attributes. No matter how far he had to travel, he never missed a class reunion and the opportunity to re-group with old friends.
Mike...
John Luckett
February 24, 2014 | Ridgeland, MS
Mike will always be LARGER THAN LIFE to all of us who knew and loved him. His great big smile alone is unforgettable -
just look at the photo! Those twinkling eyes were quite often trying (in vain much of the time) to hide the most recent mischief that was either About to happen , or Already had happened.
At St Joe High School he was a talented athlete with a multitude of friends and 'followers' - to me, though, he was a self-proclaimed over-protective Big Brother.
An...
elvie clement
February 23, 2014 | Madison, MS
Mike will always remain LARGER THAN LIFE
to all of us that knew and loved him!
His great big smile alone is unforgettable - just look at his pic!! The fact that his eyes were always twinkling is very likely due to the fact that he was trying (in vain usually ) to hide some mischief that was about to happen ---
or Already Had !
At St Joseph High School, he was a talented athlete with a multitude of friends and 'followers' . To me, though, he was a self-proclaimed and...
Elvie Clement
February 23, 2014 | Madison, MS
My deepest sympathy is extended to Mike's entire family. He remains in my thoughts and prayers.
Arthur Schmidt Jr
February 21, 2014 | Orange Beach, AL
Priscilla and I were High School class mates of Mike and have many fond memories. We played football together with Mike being the Left Tackle and me the Left Guard. I am sure he made a great Salesman. Our deepest condolences.
Roger and Priscilla DeLatte
February 21, 2014 | Plano, TX
