Barbara Powell

POWELL- Barbara V. Community Activist, passed away at her home in Hempstead on 12/31/14 after a long illness. She was 83 years old. Mrs. Powell moved to Hempstead in 1959 and became involved in community human rights issues. Barbara worked tirelessly to right social injustices and drew attention to areas of concern that turned others away. Predeceased by husband, saxophonist Seldon Powell in 1997, she is the beloved mother of Cheryl, John and Barbara II and grandmother of Barbara III. Barbara retired as a media specialist from Hempstead High School in 1996 when she became permanently disabled. With the help of family and friends, she was still able to travel and enjoy an active social life which she loved. Mrs. Powell has been the recipient of numerous honors, awards and citations recognizing her community service. She was President of the Hempstead branch of the NAACP for over 25 years. Barbara will be remembered for her infectious smile, open heart, brutal honesty but unwavering compassion for those less fortunate. Viewing will be on Monday, January 5, 2015 from 5-9pm at Fairchild Sons Funeral Home in Garden City. Funeral Services will be 11 am Tuesday, January 6 at the Lutheran Church of the Epiphany, 35 Fulton Avenue in Hempstead. Burial will follow at Greenfield Cemetery in Hempstead. The repast will follow at the LI Black History Museum on N. Franklin Street in Hempstead.