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Richard L. Powell

7/4/1928 - 11/10/2017

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Obituary For Richard L. Powell

Hon. Richard “Dick” L. Powell, 89, of Steubenville, Ohio passed away Friday, November 10, 2017. Ever patriotic, he was born July 4, 1928 to the late William and Ada Powell, in Bedford, Ohio, and raised in Brilliant, Ohio. A child of the Depression, Richard grew up quickly helping his family run Powell’s General Store—even learning to drive at 13 so that he could deliver groceries.

Remarkably self-sufficient, Richard graduated early from Brilliant High School at 16, then put himself through the College of Commerce at Ohio University, and studied law at Ohio Northern University, receiving his Juris Doctorate in 1953, while working a full-time factory job in Lima, Ohio.

Returning to Steubenville, with his wife Joan, Richard worked as a Trust Officer with First National Bank for six years before starting in private practice for 24 years. He was a member of the Jefferson County Bar Association and the Ohio State Bar Assoc., and served as a member, and chairman of the board, for the Supreme Court of Ohio Commission on Grievance and Discipline. He also taught Business Law at the University of Steubenville, and later Real Estate Law at Jefferson Technical College.

Better known to his friends and acquaintances as Judge, Richard was elected Municipal Court Judge of Steubenville in 1983, serving three terms until his retirement in 2001. He was a President of the Steubenville Rotary Club (as seen in the Rotary mural on N. Court St.), and served on the Board of Trustees of the Public Library of Steubenville from 1966 to 2016. Later in life, he served extensively as a baby-sitter, taxi driver, golf instructor, and role-model to his three grand-children.

Richard was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Joan Johnson Powell, his brother William G., his sister Jean Everson, his son Douglas, and son-in-law Floyd Stewart.

He is survived by his daughters Susan Stewart of Pompano Beach, FL, and Kimberly (Tom Letcher) Hargett of Steubenville; three grandchildren Justin Hargett of Los Angeles, CA, Travis Hargett of Washington, D.C., and Lucas Powell of Steubenville.

Friends may call at Dunlope – Shorac Funeral Home (Wintersville) on Monday 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. and Tuesday 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. On Wednesday, friends may call at First Westminster Presbyterian Church (235 N. 4th St.) from 10 a.m. until time of services at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Jason Elliot officiating. Burial at Union Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Westminster Presbyterian Church or the Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County.

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  • 09/03/2024

    Cindy DiCarlo Harda

  • 09/03/2024

    Christine and Jeff Hunt

    Susan, Kim and Family - I know how important your father/grandfather was to all of you. I am thankful that I was able to see the love that was shared in your family over the years. I share in the sadness of the loss of your father . I have many memories over the years if both your mom and dad. You were blessed to have such loving, caring parents. They will be missed by many. Love, Christine and Jeff

  • 09/03/2024

    Deb and Jim, Ron and Janet, Janie and Rick and Fin.

    Uncle Dick enjoyed life and shared his many gifts with his family, friends and others. He was a unique individual whom many will miss. We wish you peace and strength. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

  • 09/03/2024

    anonymous

    Heard a lot about you Doug, have a lot of respect for you. God bless you sir, don't know you personally, but a family member of mine knew you. All will be well for you.

  • 09/03/2024

    Frank and Lorna Layman

    Dear Susan and Kim, We were saddened to hear of your dad's passing. He and your mother were a great couple and we have great memories with them and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

  • 09/03/2024

    Heather Fisher

    I was so sorry to learn of Judge Powell's passing. He was always incredibly patient and kind to new attorneys who practiced in his court. I learned quite a lot from him and always enjoyed chatting with him. Please accept my condolences.

  • 09/03/2024

    amelio and nancy saggio

    Very sorry to hear of Judge Powell's passing. You are in our thoughts and our prayers. We are unable to come to the funeral home because Amelio is recuperating from brain surgery. Our condolences to the family.

  • 09/03/2024

    David and Karen Teaff and family

  • 09/03/2024

    Donna and Chuck snyder

    Judge Powell was a man always open,helpful, and supportive of others in his community. In remembering him, can't help but think of many functions he served as Toastmaster with humorous and interesting anecdotes. He was respectful to all and very willing to render encouragement to those trying to make life better. Our deepest sympathy to Susan and family. May he rest in peace.

  • 09/03/2024

    Monica and Jonathan Olszowy

    Our deepest condolences to your family. Uncle Dick was a great person, mentor and friend.

  • 09/03/2024

    Mr & Mrs Burke D Sullivan,Jr

  • 09/03/2024

    Mr & Mrs Burke D Sullivan,Jr

    Sorry for your loss one wonderful and great man. Proud to call a good friend. A great loss to our world but a gain for Heaven. May the Lord be with you all at this time. Our Love Burke & Polly Sullivan.

  • 09/03/2024

    Bob Slivka

    Very sorry to hear of Judge Powell's passing. You have my deepest sympathies.Bob "The Mailman"

  • 09/03/2024

    J Cory Wingett and Family

  • 09/03/2024

    Joe & Lisa Bruzzese

    Kim & Family,We are so sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. He is with his beloved wife now in peace. Our prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.Joe & Lisa

  • 09/03/2024

    Terri Antill Ferroni

  • 09/03/2024

    Shawn Zarych

  • 09/03/2024

    Michael Denmark

    My deepest sympathies to the entente family. I hadn't seen Judge Powell in many years but wanted to send the family my thoughts and prayers. Take care.

  • 09/03/2024

    DON & JANIE KERN

    Saddened to learn of the Judge's passing. Our condolence to Susan, Kim, and family,from your former neighbors. Don & Janie Kern - Winter Haven, FL

  • 09/03/2024

    Expression of Sympathy

    A Designers Choice was ordered on November 13, 2017

  • 09/03/2024

    John and Judy Irvin

    Dear Susan, Kim and family, We were saddened to learn of the death of your dad and our dear friend. We have so many wonderful memories as do you. May peace be with you at this difficult time. God Bless, Judy and John Irvin

  • 09/03/2024

    Expression of Sympathy

    A Designers Choice was ordered on November 13, 2017

  • 09/03/2024

    Dorothy Blaner

    Dear Susan and Family Members,What a wonderful attorney, teacher and Dad you had in Judge Powell. Our friendship began when I interned at his law office in the 1970s as a student in legal secretarial program. Together with his secretary Dell, they provided me with a real education in a law office and friendship. My father, Andy Blaner, knew Judge Powell as well and had the highest respect for him. Your Dad was dedicated to serving his community. Judge Powell was a great man who deserved our respect and will be missed. Sending prayers for strength to all during this sad time. God bless you.Dorothy Blaner

  • 09/03/2024

    Susan Cunningham Graham

    Susan, Kim, Lucas, I'm so sorry for your loss.

  • 09/03/2024

    SusanCunningham Graham

  • 09/03/2024

    marcel margie lollini

    marcel ,margie lollini sorry,what a kind person

  • 09/03/2024

    Brenda Powley

    Thinking of you and your family, Kim.

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