Dr. James Wallace Powell passed away at his home in St. Augustine, Florida on October 3rd, due to complications of cancer. He was 68. Dr. Powell was a graduate of Symsonia High School, held a B. S. Degree in Biology from Murray State University (1968), and a Doctorate of Medicine from the University of Louisville (1972). He was a well-known figure in the medical community of St. Augustine and worked as an Emergency Room Physician at St. Vincent’s and St. Augustine General Hospitals and trained E.M.S. professionals. Dr. Powell was an avid reader who loved fiction and books about history. He travelled extensively, often to historical sites where he collected artifacts ranging from Roman coins to Russian icons. He was also a classically trained pianist. As a native of Western Kentucky, he is remembered in that area for his talents as a singer, keyboard player, and showman in The Downbeats and The Paducah Dukes in the 1960s. The “Dukes” were awarded Duke of Paducah status following their U.S.O. tour of Germany in 1966. Dr. Powell continued to play in local rock bands after his move to Florida. From his childhood as a pianist in the Symsonia Methodist Church until his death, music was an essential part of his life.
Dr. Powell is survived by his mother, Mae Belle Powell, and aunt, Mary Roach, both of Symsonia, Kentucky, as well as a brother, David M. Powell, and his wife, Amy Rose, from San Jose, California. His family in St. Augustine includes his wife, Lynne A. Powell, his step-son Gary Wilson and wife, Sheree, and his grandchildren: Gavin, Liam, and Olivia Wilson. Family in Nashville, Tennessee includes his cousin, Nancy Roche, her husband, Sawnie R. Aldredge, and his niece, Anjelika Aldredge.
A graveside funeral will be held at the Symsonia Cemetery on October 24th, 2015 at 1 p.m. with Brother Mark Stephens officiating. Filbeck-Cann & King Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. A reception in the Rainbow Center of the Symsonia Methodist Church will follow. Dr. Powell’s great-grandmother was a founding member of the church, and he was also a member.
His family requests that donations be made to the Symsonia Methodist Church in lieu of flowers.
Condolences may be sent on-line at www.filbeckcannking.com