Roberta (Bobbie) Joyce Powell

Roberta ("Bobbie") Joyce Powell, age 75, of Rochelle, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, June 17, 2024 in her home, surrounded by her family. Bobbie was born on April 13, 1949 in Aurora, Illinois. She was the daughter of Robert and Joyce Watson. She resided in Oswego, graduating from Oswego High School in 1967. Four years later she married Gaylon Powell of Jonesboro, Arkansas. He would become her lifelong companion.

She was a daughter, sister, cousin, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, and friend. Bobbie had many hobbies and talents. She was very good at academics, especially reading. She enjoyed crafts and scrapbooking. But her favorite pastime was praying. If Bobbie knew you, she was praying for you. She kept post-it notes, journals, and pictures all over her house to remind herself of what everyone needed from God. She was so good at showing unconditional love. The way that she cared for people was admirable. She sent out cards on a steady basis. Many meals were made for ailing friends and loved ones. If someone needed to talk over lunch or over the phone, she made time for them. Many anonymous gifts were given from her as well. Her steady presence of love will be missed by those that knew her best.

Bobbie was always there. Whether it was a grandchild's play or sporting event, a wedding, baby shower, church event or cookout; she was there. Her consistent and persistent way of showing up for those she cared about was truly remarkable, and her absence will be significant. She made every person feel special, every grandchild was her favorite, every moment with her was memorable.

The outpouring of love, support, prayers and fond memories has uplifted the family and will continue to carry us through these difficult days. Bobbie touched more lives than anyone will ever be able to count, and her legacy will live on through her family.

Bobbie has left behind her husband, Gaylon, two daughters; Shelly (Cameron) Wiegartz and Laura Powell, six grandchildren; Trinity Harms, Tirzah Harms, Riley Wiegartz, Asher Wiegartz, TJ Harms and Addison Wiegartz, two siblings; Michael Watson (Michale Sanders) and Diana (Fernando) Chapa her mother, Joyce Watson, and many, many, MANY friends. She was preceded in death by her father Bob Watson, in-laws Johnnie and Eileen Powell, cousins Sue Moeller, Jim Blatner and Jim Watson, sister-in-law Phyllis Furnish, niece Shirlene Furnish, great-nephew Noah Reeves, along with grandparents, aunts and uncles.

Funeral arrangements have been made with Bethel Assembly of God 131 W. Elm St., Sycamore, IL. Visitation will be held at Bethel on Saturday, June 22 from 9-11:30 am. Funeral will follow at 11:30 am, with a luncheon immediately after.

Memorial donations can be made to Bethel Missions. https://secure.myvanco.com/L-Z3PR/campaign/C-122SB