Benjamin "Banjo" Powell Jr.

Benjamin 'Banjo' Powell, Jr., 75, of Abbeville, husband of Myra Alexander Powell, died Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at his home. He was born in Abbeville to the late Benjamin Bonnon Powell, Sr. and Nancy Harris Powell.

Banjo, as he was affectionately known, was a 1968 graduate of Abbeville High School. He served with honor in the United States Marines, demonstrating his commitment to his country with pride. Banjo was employed with the CSX Railroad, retiring after 36 years of dedicated service.

It was in his role as a faithful member of South Side Baptist Church where his passion for service truly flourished. For 22 years, he devoted his time as a Sunday School teacher for the youth, sharing his knowledge and instilling in them important values. He also served as an usher for 30 years, welcoming worshippers with a friendly smile. Banjo's involvement did not end there; he contributed significantly to Children's Church, Vacation Bible School and served as a bus driver for the church, always being known as the 'go to guy' for anything that needed doing. His favorite verse of scripture was Hebrews 13:5 - "Let your conduct be without covetousness; and be content with such things as you have: for he hath said, "I will never leave you nor forsake thee."

Banjo had a passion for golf, a sport he thoroughly enjoyed. His love for the game often led him to spend time with friends and family, where countless memories were created. His life serves as a testament to the power of serving others and he will be fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Brandon Wilson and an infant sister, Bonnie Jane Powell.

Banjo is survived by his wife of 49 years, Myra, of the home; daughter-in-law, Kerry B. Wilson of Abbeville; sister, Jane Powell of Greenwood; and three grandchildren, Brady, Jaycie and Kellar Wilson.

Funeral services will be 2:00PM, Friday, July 25, 2025, in the Harris Funeral Home chapel with Rev. Dr. Joel Bradberry officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends following the burial.

Memorial contributions, in memory of Banjo, may be sent to Hospice and Palliative Care of the Piedmont, 408 W. Alexander Ave., Greenwood, SC 29646 or the Humane Society of Abbeville County, PO Box 256, Abbeville, SC 29620.

The family is at the home in Abbeville.

A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.harrisfuneral.com.

Harris Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Abbeville is assisting Powell family.