Gerald Powers

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Gerald Powers, of Portsmouth, RI, on May 24, 2025. He was 83 years old. He was the son of the late Thomas and Rose (Walsh) Powers. Known as Jerry to friends and family, he was born on August 20, 1941. He was raised and spent his entire life in Portsmouth, most notably the Island Park area.

He was a Navy veteran and worked several jobs after mustering out before he found his true calling with the Portsmouth Fire Department. He earned the rank of Lieutenant before retiring after more than 20 years of service. He loved working with wood and was an exceptional carpenter and furnituremaker. He was also an excellent cook and a voracious reader of mysteries. He also loved to go fishing and has won awards.

He was a life member of the Seaconnet Sportsman’s Club where he made so many friends and leaves them with so many wonderful memories. He served as their treasurer for a number of years. He was also a member of the Newport Elks Lodge for a time.

He is survived by his daughter Beth Corriveau of Ellenton, FL; his son David Powers (Christine) of Raleigh, NC; and Patricia Allan of Middletown, RI, his former wife and mother of his children. He also leaves his granddaughter Jessica Britter (George) of Mineral, VA; grandsons Ryan, Sean, and Evan Powers of Raleigh, NC and a sister Carol Dillon (Paul) of Conway, SC, along with several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brother Robert Powers, sister Joan Wertman, grandson Zachary Hix, and son-in-law Michael Corriveau.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 16 from 4:00-6:00pm at the Connors Funeral Home, 55 West Main Rd, Portsmouth.

Jerry’s memorial service with military honors will be held at Connors Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 17 at 11:00am. A reception will follow at the Seaconnet Sportsman’s Club, 145 Sakonnet Drive, Portsmouth.

Not only was Jerry a fireman helping others during his younger years, he came to rely on the department’s ambulance service in his later years on several occasions. The EMTs who responded always treated him with kindness and compassion.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Portsmouth Fire Department, 2300 East Main Road, Portsmouth, RI 02871.