Cover photo for James Franklin Powers, Sr.'s Obituary
James Franklin Powers, Sr. Profile Photo
1940 James 2015

James Franklin Powers, Sr.

September 25, 1940 — January 4, 2015

James Franklin "Jim" Powers, Sr., also lovingly known as "Colonel" and "Mr. Pen Mar", died at the age of 74, on Sunday, January 4, 2015.

Born September 25, 1940, in Brunswick, he was the son of the late Milford Ellsworth and Iva Louise (Albert) Powers.

Jim was a 1959 graduate of Brunswick High School, before graduating from Eckles College of Mortuary Science in Philadelphia. Jim worked as a funeral director and embalmer until his retirement in 1985. For many years he worked for "Kline Tours" as a host.

Jim had a love for music and will be remembered as a wonderful organist! He was responsible for organizing bands to play at Pen Mar Park for 25 years. He was a member of the American Federation of Musicians Local 770 and 580; American Federation of Musician Professional Musicians Club; BPO Elks Lodge #378, where he also served as organist; Free State Theater Organ Society; and was past president of the Full Gospel Businessmen's Fellowship Int. He loved to collect books and had about 10,000 in his collection. He enjoyed thrift stores and antique shops. Jim even won a dancing contest on the American Bandstand and the Milt Grant show!

He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Fay Powers; a son, James Franklin Powers, Jr. of Hagerstown; a brother, Charles T. Colbert of Dillwyn, VA; three grandchildren, David, Robert, and Marsha; seven great-grandchildren; and his beloved dog, Maggie.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a sister, Linda M. Collar; an infant grandson, Joseph Douglas Powers; and a great-grandson, Charles Ray Powers.

A funeral service will be conducted at 1:00pm on Thursday, January 8, 2015 at Rest Haven Funeral Chapel, 1601 Pennsylvania Ave., Hagerstown. Interment will follow in Rest Haven Cemetery.

Friends will be received from 6-9pm on Wednesday at the funeral home.

www.rsthvn.com
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