Judy C. Gates Powell

 

Judy C. Gates Powell, 69, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, June 5, 2023, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Born Feb. 21, 1954 to William B. Gates and Mary “Sally” Morgan Gates, Mrs. Judy was known as someone who always worked hard, was never idle, and got joy in her labor, whether she was doing her job as a waitress or cleaning house at home.

Through the years, Mrs. Judy developed her gift of serving people by working in some of the local, somewhat historic restaurants in the Clarke County area, Ezell’s, the Delmar, and the Alabama Grill to name a few. But she not only served people in restaurants, she served people at home, in her community. She loved Jesus and showed His love for others by helping them whenever or wherever they had a need. Her house was always full of children from all around the neighborhood, where they knew they were always welcome and food was always available.

Known as Nana to her grandchildren and as Honey to her greats, Mrs. Judy loved her family. She had a special relationship with those grands and greats. One of the greats, knowing that Jesus was soon to come, wanted to stay up to talk with Him. When asked why, she said she wanted to tell Jesus to save her a seat by her Honey!

Though she was a hard worker, Mrs. Judy also had a softer side. She loved to travel. She loved going to the beach. She loved going to church, praising God, and listening to gospel music. A sweet, lovable lady, now at home with her Lord.

Mrs. Judy is survived by her husband, Mike E. Powell; her mother, Mary A “Sally” Gates; son, Travis Powell; daughter, Tanya (Zach) Birmingham; brothers, Bobby (Debbie) Gates, and Benny (Andrea) Gates; four grandchildren, Dalton, Tangie, Hunter and Rayliegh; three greatgrandchildren, Addelyn, Shay and Walker; and two very special friends, Pam Hamilton Cooley and Lora Newton Odom.

Preceding her in death were her father, William B Gates; brother, William Max Gates; and son, Tracy E. Powell.

A graveside service was held Wednesday, June 7, 11 a.m., at the Salem Baptist Church Cemetery just off of Old Line Road in Dickinson, with interment following.

Bro. James Harris officiated, with St. Stephens Funeral Home directing.

Pallbearers were Zach Birmingham, Carlos Elrod, Dalton Powell, Justin Gates, Greg Dement and Darren Powell. Honorary pallbearers included Southern Care Hospice, Hunter Hughes, Trent Finedore and Josh Larrimore.