David Lee Powell

David Lee Powell, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and the best role model anyone could ask for passed away on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at the age of 79.

David was the fifth-born of seven children at home on the family farm in Sunrise Beach, Missouri, on September 15, 1945. He was the son of the late Lawrence and Evelyn Powell. David grew up in Missouri and graduated from Camdenton High School in 1963, where he ran on the track and field team. Summers were spent water skiing, boating, and swimming with various family and friends.

After high school, David proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for four years as an aircraft mechanic working on B-52 Bombers and was promoted to Assistant Flight Commander. Following his military service, he met and married the love of his life, Bonita, while stationed in Grand Forks, North Dakota. He continued his training at the Sparton School of Aeronautics, earning his aircraft mechanic certification. In 1969, David began a long and successful career with Northwest Airlines (now Delta), where he worked until his retirement in 2005.

A man of quiet strength and endless capability, he was talented and there was very little that he could not build or fix. David rebuilt cars, accomplished several household projects, restored many vintage radios as well as his boat located in Sunrise Beach. As a passionate aviator, David became a licensed pilot and took joy in both flying and maintaining his own aircraft.

Above all, David was devoted to his family. He was known for his steady presence and unwavering support. He took great joy in being part of his children’s, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren's lives - never missing a chance to cheer them on, lend a hand, or simply enjoy a game of Blackjack, Hot Wheels, Checkers, or Ping-Pong.

David’s legacy is one of loyalty, hard work, and unconditional love. He leaves behind a family who adored him and a lifetime of cherished memories.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his siblings, Larry Powell, Linda Waisner, Gene Powell, and Jerry Powell. Also preceded by brothers-in-law, Richard Woods and Rodney Swope.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Bonita Rye Powell; children, Stacy Surapine (Michael) of Newnan, Georgia; Stephanie McElligott (Theodore) of Kathleen, Georgia; grandchildren, Jordan Heyman (Joshua); Madisyn Giorno (Joseph); Bailey Surapine-Meen (Joshua); and Delaney Galusha (Kyle); great-grandchildren, Olivia, Grayson, and Ella Heyman, Joseph “J.J.” Giorno the 5th, Caitlyn, and Charlotte Giorno; and siblings, Ann Woods, and Kathy Swope.

A memorial service will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home. David Lee Powell will be laid to rest privately. 

The family will accept flowers or donations may be given in memory of David Lee Powell to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, at 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

For friends unable to attend at this time, the service will be streamed live at https://www.youtube.com/@McCulloughFuneralHome via the McCullough Funeral Home’s YouTube page.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.