Herbert Thanks Powell, son of the late Clara Macklin & Garfield Powell, was born in LaCrosse Virginia, on Thanksgiving Day November 29, 1928. He was the 1st of three children born in this union. Herbert was preceded in death by his (son) Timothy Powell, (brother) Booker Simmons, (sister) Bertha Crossling, (mother) Clara Macklin, & (Father) Garfield Powell.

Herbert’s early childhood years were extremely challenging. He lost his biological Dad when he was only 2 years old. He was raised by his stepfather who showed favoritism towards his other son. As a teenager he worked on a farm, found time to get his high school diploma, and loved to make Moonshine!

After school, Herbert worked as a carpenter building houses for 5 years. To further his career, Herbert made a key decision that would mold his life. He enlisted into the United States Air force, at the age of 23. In the beginning he learned to service aircraft, eventually working his way up to aircraft supervisor. After 26 years of service, he retired in 1977 with the highest rank of Master Sergeant. During his career, in 1977 he received the Meritorious Service Award Medal, in 1988 The Sustained Superior Performance Award, and in 1994 A Certificate of Appreciation for years of Dedicated Service. He's held several assignments in the United States, 3 overseas Tour of Duties which included, 2 in Kadena Japan, and 1 assignment in the Vietnam War. His last duty was at Mather AFB where he retired after 26 years of service. Bored after retiring from the Military, Herbert went back to work and found a Job as McClellan Air Force Base as a woods craftsman. He received a Hero Box for knowledge shared in the Civil Engineering Cabinet Shop.

At the age of 28, Herbert met the Love of his Life Mary Ellen Fortune. Mary was living in New York at the time when a friend persuaded her to attend a family reunion in South Hill, Virginia to meet her cousin Herbert. (Blind date setup). Mary says they both instantly hit it off! Six weeks later turned into 67 years of marital bliss. Herbert's leisure time consisted of doing what he did best, always fixing something. Besides being a handyman, he loved bowling, playing golf, fishing, and photography. Herbert joined many local leagues, sometimes teaming up with his wife Mary. Every year they would travel in tournaments as far as Reno and Las Vegas. Herbert loved watching football and was a big fan of the San Francisco 49ers. Herbert was a craftsman and could fix anything.

In his later years Herbert became a member of Rancho Cordova United Methodist Church. He also was a member of the VFW & the Moose Lodge in Rancho Cordova. In 2022, he received a prestigious Blue Jacket, and invited most of the family to celebrate with him. A great moment of remembrance!

Herbert was exceptional all through his adult life when it came to being organized & prepared. His military training had a lot to do with his outlook on life.

Herbert took his last breath peacefully on Monday, August 28, 2023 at his home with his wife Mary by his side. Herbert leaves a legacy that is filled with many cherished moments. Peace and Serenity to Mary, his loving wife of 67 years, son Tyrone Powell, (Oksana) daughter in-law (Paula), Grandchildren; Brenna, Kameron (Juwelle), Phillip, Jessica (Albert), Shannon (Alexis), Great-grandchildren: Alyssa, Imani, Tylen, & Benjamin. Sister in-laws: Jean, Beryl, Virginia, Russell, & Joyce. Special Friends Jack, Cal, & Jill, and a host of nieces nephews, relatives and friends.