Obituary of Lillian Powell

Lillian Kaye Gregory Powell ("Chickie"), of Spencerport, New York, lost her battle with cancer on November 15, 2012. She was born in Lexington, New York, on Friday, July 13, 1934. Chickie graduated from Hunter-Tannersville Central Schools and received a Bachelor of Arts from Albany State University, a Masters of Education from the University of Rochester's Warner School of Education and a Certificate of Administration from SUNY Brockport. Chickie had a successful career as an English and Social Studies teacher at both the Spencerport Central School District, where she organized an honors group of students called the "Varsity Thinkers," and with the Churchville Chili Central School District. She will be remembered for her compassion and commitment to her students, her dedication to learning, her absolute belief that every child has the ability to learn and that every student deserves a chance. She was a member of the Spencerport United Methodist Church and a 50 year member of Etolian Chapter #308, Order of the Eastern Star, and Daughters of the Nile. Until the time of her illness she was active in several charities, especially those involving people with disabilities, the homeless and animal welfare. Chickie loved the arts, especially music and theater, with a particular love for the works of Shakespeare. She is survived by her husband of 56 years, James J. Powell, her daughter Diana (Keery), son-in-law Brian, granddaughters Alexandra and Caitlyn, brothers-in-law Claude (Shirley) Powell & Ralph (Wanda) Powell; sister-in-law, Joyce Simms; nieces and nephews, friends and extended family. The family would like to thank Dr. Angel and her staff and the doctors and nurses at Highland Hospital for the care they gave and the compassion they showed. Lillian's funeral service will be celebrated 12:30pm on Sunday, November 25 at Spencerport United Methodist Church, 32 Amity St. in Spencerport.