Doris L. Powell

Doris L. Powell, 96, of Rockford, IL, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on March 1st, 2026, with her children by her side. She was born September 23, 1929, in Minneapolis, MN, the daughter of Elmer and Elnora Blocher. She graduated from High school in 1948, and she attended several colleges and received her bachelor's in education. She went on to receive her master's in special education and taught for more than 40 years. Doris met her husband, Ellis Powell, at church camp in 1944, and they married on March 5th, 1949. Together, they were married for 71 years.

Doris was an avid reader, enjoyed sewing, gardening, and traveling. She traveled to more than 37 countries, including two mission trips to Central America and one mission trip to Ecuador. As a pastor's wife, she was also a faithful servant of the Lord and attended church regularly, along with her life group and Bible studies.

The family would like to give special thanks to Fairhaven Christian Retirement Center, her caring nurses and staff, and Northern Illinois Hospice, who took care of her.

Survived by her children, Richard Powell, Debra (Richard) Genovese, and Charles (Kathy) Powell; grandchildren, Brian (Lynn) Genovese, Jana Wren Powell (Michael Meadows), and Sara (Matt) Kate Powell-Clark; great-grandchildren, Briahna Genovese, Wren Kate Henderson; bonus great-grandchildren, Kailey, Randi, and Mercedes; brothers, George and Sherman Blocher; numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her husband, Ellis Powell; grandson, Todd Genovese; 2 brothers, and 1 sister.

Graveside service will be in Unionville, IA, at Church of the Brethren. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Heifer International.