Ivey R Powell,Sr.

ROCKY MOUNT – Ivey Rollins Powell, Sr., age 88, passed away on Monday, May 29, 2017. Born in Halifax County, NC on February 26, 1929, he was the son of the late Gaston E. Powell and Rosa Myrene Crawley. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Ramona Powell; and brothers, Edward “Ed” Powell and Joseph “Joe” Powell.

Ivey graduated from Aurelian Springs High School where he participated in basketball, baseball and track. He spent many years as the chauffer for Congressman Harold D. Cooley from Nashville, NC while in Washington, DC. After many years of service at Merita Bakery (Interstate Brands) he retired as shipping foreman. He married the love of his life, Ramona, and remained married for 50 years. An active member at First Baptist Church where he served as deacon, bereavement committee member and an active Sunday school participant. A family foundation of God fearing principles was active in the home and a part of the rearing of their children and extended to their grandchildren. Ivey and Ramona were constantly found away from home trailing children and grandchildren in their activities.

Ivey leaves behind to cherish his memory, daughters, Claudia Sikes and husband, Grant, of Rocky Mount; and Mona Powell of Greenville; and sons, James R. Lawrence, Jr. and wife, Tonnie, of Raleigh; and Ivey Powell, Jr. of Rocky Mount. He is survived by grandchildren, James Lawrence, III; Brittany Lawrence; Chelsea Lawrence; Erica Bennett and husband, Jason; Amber Sikes; Will Sikes; Connor Powell; Rebecca Powell; and several nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his great grand-dog, Walter.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2017 at 2:00 PM at First Baptist Church, 200 S. Church Street, Rocky Mount, with Rev. Bill Grisham and Rev. Larry Curtis officiating. Burial will follow at Rocky Mount Memorial Park. Visitation with the family will be from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM prior to the service in the Narthex of First Baptist Church.

Flowers are welcomed or memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Music Fund or First Baptist Church Missions, 200 S. Church Street, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.