Samuel “Sam” Powell, age 90, of Knoxville, Illinois, died at 10:05 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born on July 4, 1935 in Saint Mary’s, Illinois, the son of Ernest and Lera (Phillips) Powell. He married Wilberta “Bertie” George on January 1, 1954 in Williamsfield, Illinois.
Surviving is his wife, Bertie Powell of Knoxville, Illinois; his children: Connie Sue Becker of St. Ann, Missouri, Ben Powell of LaVerne, California, Jane (Steve Nelson) Powell of Galesburg, Illinois, and Vicki (Michael) Crawford of Georgetown, Kentucky; thirteen grandchildren and twenty-nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-laws, three sisters: Mildred, June and Helen, one brother, Ronald, one grandchild, Heath Alfaro, one son-in-law, Van Becker and one daughter-in-law, Sharon Powell.
He starting working for ADM at the age of eighteen and retired forty-seven years later as Plant Supervisor. He was an active member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Galesburg, Illinois. He enjoyed square dancing, camping and attending his grandchildren’s events. He also enjoyed motorcycling in his early years and watching Indy car racing.
Visitation will be held on Monday, March 16, 2026 at 10 a.m., rosary at 10:45 a.m. with Funeral Mass beginning at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Galesburg, Illinois, with Father Jeffrey Stirniman officiating. Cremation will be preformed following the services. Memorials may be made to St. Vincent DePaul, American Cancer Society and American Heart Association. On-line condolences may be left at www.hurdhendricksfuneralhome.com.
