Kenneth Powell

Dr. Kenneth A. Powell, M.D. RUTHERFORD COLLEGE Kenneth Alton Powell, M.D., 78, of Rutherford College, passed away Friday, July 26, 2013, at Sunnybrook Assisted Living Center in Hendersonville, following a period of declining health. Dr. Powell was born Dec. 23, 1934, in Mecklenburg County, to the late Floyd J. Powell and Clara S. Powell. He was a U.S. Army Veteran, a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and received his medical degree from Bowman Gray School of Medicine. Ken opened a family practice office 50 years ago across from Valdese General Hospital, after his military service. He was a hometown doctor that delivered babies and made house calls for many years. After he retired, he enjoyed many years of flying, traveling, and enjoying life. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Kenneth A. Powell Jr.; and brother, Douglas Powell. Survivors include his wife, Marcia Hendrix Powell, of the home; daughter, Sandy Searson, of Drexel; and granddaughter, Allie Searson, of Savannah, Ga. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 29, at the Waldensian Presbyterian Church Cemetery, followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary at Waldensian Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Mike Sears officiating. In lieu of receiving friends, celebrate life in honor of Dr. Powell. Memorial contributions may be made to the Waldensian Presbyterian Church, 109 Main St. East, Valdese, NC 28690 or the Alzheimer's Association, 1265 A. 21st St. NE, Hickory, NC 28601. An online guestbook and obituary is available at www.heritagefuneral services.com. Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory of Valdese is serving the Powell family.