Robert Wayne "Bob" Powell

Robert "Bob" Wayne Powell, born October 8, 1943, in Groveton, Texas, to R.L. Powell and Doris Edith (Keels) Powell, passed away after a drawn-out battle with illness in Katy, Texas.

Bob was a man of remarkable intellect, discipline, and dedication. He devoted much of his life to education and professional excellence, beginning his college journey at Baylor University before returning to the Piney Woods of East Texas to complete his master's degree at Stephen F. Austin University. His early career reflected his passion for teaching and learning, as he worked as a mathematics teacher in Louisiana and later in Hudson, Texas.

Bob later transitioned into the insurance industry, working for Tennessee Life before forming his own company in the mid-1970s. From that point forward, he spent the next fifty years as an actuary, a profession that perfectly matched his analytical mind and commitment to precision. He continued working in the field until his passing and was affiliated with the American Society of Pension Professionals and Actuaries.

Beyond his professional life, Bob found joy in both quiet study and active living. In his younger years, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He had a deep love for history and possessed an impressive knowledge of historical facts, which he enjoyed sharing with family and friends. Bob especially cherished watching his grandchildren dance and participate in sporting events, taking immense pride in their accomplishments. In his later years, he enjoyed ranching, finding contentment in the land and the slower rhythm of rural life.

Bob loved the Lord and was raised in the Baptist faith, which remained an important foundation throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, R.L. and Doris Powell; his sister, Janis Ann Powell Stanley; and his brothers-in-law, Barry Stanley and Jack Collins.

Bob is survived by his daughters, Angelique Burnside and husband Jeff, and Rene Ferguson and husband Todd; his grandchildren, Alyssa Waguespack and husband Andrew, Riley Burnside, Brent Burnside and fiancé Chelsea Diaz, Stefan Capps and wife Leah, and Ty Ferguson; his sisters, Gwen Collins and Peggy Smith; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

The family invites everyone to join them for a celebration of life graveside service at Moore Cemetery at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026.

Bob Powell was a proud son of East Texas whose roots in the Piney Woods shaped both his character and his values. He believed deeply in the power of education, lifelong learning, and disciplined thought, and he lived those principles every day-as a teacher, a scholar, and a respected actuary. His academic legacy, steady faith, and devotion to family will continue to influence generations to come. Though his earthly journey has ended, the knowledge he shared, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave will remain firmly planted in the lives of those who knew him.

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