Louis Richard Powell's Obituary
Louis Richard Powell, 88, of Dallas passed away peacefully on August 2, 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer. “Lou” was born on April 2, 1932 in Fort Smith, Arkansas to Ruth Marie Wiggington and Joseph Louis Powell. He graduated from Oklahoma Military Academy and attended Oklahoma A&M (Oklahoma State University), where he met the love of his life, Mary Sanders. They quickly eloped, and have been by each other’s side for over 68 years.
Blessed with a beautiful singing voice, he was offered a scholarship to the Julliard School of Music. Instead, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he served in the infantry, graduated from jump school and became an officer. He served his country for over 8 years, including 4 years in Nuremberg, Germany.
Lou was a salesman at heart, and never met a stranger. He was loved and respected in the ladies’ apparel industry for over 50 years. He began his successful career with Gay Gibson in New York City. In Dallas he was co-owner of L&L Manufacturing and Gotcha Covered Inc.
He was an active member of Lakewood Country Club, where he cherished many friends. As a member and past president of the East Dallas Exchange Club, Lou was passionate and instrumental in the club’s “Coats for Kids” program, an outreach for children in underprivileged schools. He and Mary were founding members and attended All Saints Catholic Church.
Lou is survived by his wife, Mary Alice Powell and his three daughters, Vicki Holland and husband Jeff, Sherri Coody and husband Louis, and Jennie Kesler and husband Brent. He was a loving and dedicated “Papaw” to his grandchildren, Kevin Craig, Kelly Craig and wife Allison, Andrew Rains and wife Tisha, Hannah Coody, Natalie Coody and Makenzie Kesler. He also leaves six great-grandchildren, Walker Craig, Charlie Craig, Cullen Craig, Orion Rains, Tristen Rains and Lillie Rains.
A small private memorial and celebration of Lou’s life will be held for family and friends due to COVID-19 restrictions.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the East Dallas Exchange Club. https://exchangeclubofeastdallas.org/make-a-donation/
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