Lee Roy Powell

Lee Roy Powell (84) returned home to his Heavenly Father on November 23, 2025, due to complications of a stroke.

Lee was born on February 14, 1941, in Crockett County, Tennessee, to Ruth (Green) and L.H. Powell. He grew up there picking cotton, share cropping, and playing basketball. He proudly served in the US Navy from 1959-1963, where he was assigned to the USS Bryce Canyon.

In 1961, Lee met his wife Janet (Judd) in Long Beach, California. They had 3 daughters Jana, Teresa, and Lisa. They loved hosting exchange students and welcomed many people into their home that are still considered family. He worked in the furniture business and for the Orange County Sheriff's office before moving to Nevada where he worked for the Department of Corrections. He medically retired in 1982 to 20 acres in Mountain Home, Arkansas. He loved hunting off his front porch and fishing the nearby lakes and rivers. His friends and ward family looked forward to his annual fish fry that he did for 26 years-supplied by his many fishing trips over the summer!

Lee was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which he joined while in the Navy. He always talked about his international priesthood as he was ordained a deacon in Hawaii, a teacher in Hong Kong, a priest in Long Beach, and an Elder in Salt Lake! He served in the church in many capacities including ward missionary, high councilor, and temple worker. He was a man of service, especially to veterans, the elderly, and widows.

Lee moved to Arizona following Janet's passing. He learned many new skills at the VA blind school and participated in a grief support group where he met Carolyn Harvey. They had a wonderful friendship and married in April 2025. They brought great joy to each other's lives.

Lee is preceded in death by his parents, his brother James, and wife Janet.

He is survived by his wife Carolyn and brothers Vernon (Brenda) and Larry. Lee's love went beyond blood and is cherished by many as Dad, Papa, and Great Papa.

We would like to thank Thelmo and Nancy Torrealba for taking in and caring for Lee the last several years. Special thanks to Carolyn for loving Lee and bringing light back into his life.

A graveside service will be held in Salt Lake City, Utah, on November 29. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the VA in Lee's memory. https://www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online/