James D. Powell

James D. "Butchie" Powell, 78, of Washington, died Tuesday, January 13, 2026, in the Washington Hospital. He was born July 10, 1947, in Washington, a son of the late Peter J. and Mary Constance Chemento Powell. Mr. Powell was a 1965 graduate of Chartiers- Houston High School and received his Bachelor's and Master's degrees from California State Teachers College. Jim was a retired agent for Prudential Life Insurance, where he had worked for over 40 years. He was a gentleman farmer, raising Piedmontese cattle. He was a member of the Buffalo Creek Watershed Association and was awarded a 25-year Stewardship Award from the association. In 1991, Governor Robert P. Casey presented him with the "Take Pride In Pennsylvania Award" in recognition of his superior contributions to the stewardship of Pennsylvania public land and cultural resources. He was a member of the Holy Trinity National Catholic Church. Surviving are his wife, Regina Cilia Powell; son, Anthony James Powell and wife Stefanie Owcarski of Charleston, S.C.; daughter, Tina FireWolf of Hendersonville, N.C.; a sister, Debra Morris of Canonsburg; and several cousins. There are no services scheduled at this time. A memorial service will be scheduled for a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the McIlvaine-Speakman Funeral Home Ltd., Robert K. McIlvaine, owner/supervisor, 27, Cherry Avenue, Houston, PA 15342. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the charity of one's choice. Condolences may be made to the family by viewing the obituary at www.mcilvaine-speakman.com