of Helena, AR
June 1, 1935 - March 23, 2025
Charles Edward Powell, Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 23, 2025. Born on June 1, 1935 in Vicksburg, Mississippi to Charles E. Powell, Sr. and Angie Ball Powell. Charles grew up in Tallulah, Louisiana where he developed a strong work ethic and a love for the outdoors.
During high school, Charles played football, ran track and spent his summers mowing lawns with his lifelong friend, John Earl Martin. Together, they often recalled how Charles, Sr. taught them the true meaning of hard work. It was during these formative years that Charles-known to his family as Edward-earned the beloved nickname ''Ganna.''
In 1953, he enrolled at Louisiana Tech University, where he met the love of his life, Betty Sibley. The two married and built a beautiful life together, sharing 66 years of love, laughter and partnership.
After college, Charles began his career with Chicago Mill and Lumber Company, which took him to Helena, Arkansas, where he became Logging Superintendent. Eventually, he ventured out on his own, founding his business, Ganna, Inc.
Beyond his career, Charles served as a volunteer firefighter and an auxiliary deputy sheriff and took great pride in being a 32nd-degree Mason. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed his time hunting and fishing at Island 64, Ham Island and later, Jackson Point. For 64 years he was a dedicated member of West Helena United Methodist Church.
Charles is survived by his beloved wife, Betty and their three children: Jane (Greg) Hurley of Sherwood, AR, Bruce (Brenda) Powell of Peachtree City, GA and Alan (Kathy) Powell of Wilmington, OH. He was a proud grandfather to Lauren Davis, Lindsey Berggren, Cassidy Lonowski, Jordan Powell and Joseph Hurley and a cherished great-grandfather to Aria, Micah, Zoey, Josie, Annabelle, Bonnie and Ben, all of whom lovingly called him ''Papa Ganna.''
A Memorial Service will be held at West Helena United Methodist Church on Saturday, April 5th at 11:00 a.m. with visitation beginning at 10:30.
Memorials may be made to the West Helena United Methodist Church 109 North Sixth St. West Helena, Arkansas, 72390, to the Helena Museum of Phillips County at 623 Pecan St. Helena AR 72342 or to the charity of your choice.
Relatives and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/westhelena.
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14 Condolence(s)
Mary Frances Richardd
Friday, March 28, 2025
Thank you, Big Chaz, for all the years of love and laughter. I am so glad to have been a part of your life.
Norma James
Friday, March 28, 2025
As a friend to Jane for decades, thinking of all during this time.
Juanita Proffitt
Thursday, March 27, 2025
I am remembering you all in my prayers and am so very sorry for your loss.
John & Lenette Shadow
Thursday, March 27, 2025
Betty, our thoughts and prayers are with you and all the family. Charles was not only my supervisor at Chicago Mill but also a good friend for many years. I will cherish the memories of those years.
Carolyn Seidel
Thursday, March 27, 2025
I was lucky to have Ganna as a brother-in-law. With his outgoing personality, he was so easy to make friends with. My fondest memory, is of him teaching me to water ski. He will surely be missed. Knowing we will meet again one day, goodbye to you Ganna. Love you.
JudieRose akin
Thursday, March 27, 2025
Many Years have Passed Since I had first Meet Charles ,, He always had a broad Smile & Greeting ,, My Condolences to His Family ! & Peace only Our Lord Jesus can Give! I know he will be Greatly missed!
Donna Cox (Mickie)
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Dear Ms. Betty
I was saddened to hear of Mr Charles passing. My prayers are with you and your family.
Lou Smart
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Mrs. Betty, we are so sorry to hear of Mr. Charles' passing. You were both good friends of our parents, Lucille and Pete Smart. We will keep you and your family in prayer.
Lou and Larry Smart
George Gates
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
My prayers are with y’all.
Danny and Roxie Wilson
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
So sorry to hear about this, Mr. Charles was a sweet man. Danny worked with him at Chicago Mill and I went to church with him and Mrs. Betty at the Methodist Church, when I was growing up.
Prayers and hugs for all of you.
Marty Marshall and family
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
I am very sorry for your loss as you and your family will be in my prayers.
Deborah Self
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Mr. Charles, I came to know you and Ms. Betty when I went to work for the WHUMC as church secretary over 17 years ago. It was my great honor to have called you my friend. You were a great man that was deeply loved by many and will be missed just as much. I know there is a wonderful reunion happening in glory right now, and one day, we will be a part of that great reunion. Until then my dear friend, rest well in the Lord.
Barry -Karen Seidel
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
We Love You!
Diana Jones