Life and Legacy of Gertrude Amelia Reavis Powell

A Time to Be Born
Gertrude Amelia Reavis Powell was born on July 11, 1939, in Newport News, Virginia, the second child of Eugene and Baylease Reavis. Known for her spirited nature from an early age, Gertrude embraced the role of the mischievous middle child with charm and confidence. Her vibrant personality made her unforgettable to all who knew her.

A Time to Love
Gertrude met and married her soulmate and the love of her life, James "Jim" McCoy Powell. Their love story spanned an incredible fifty-nine years, filled with unwavering devotion, shared dreams, and countless cherished memories.  Together, they built a home rooted in love, faith, and family. Their union was blessed with three children: Paula Eugenia (deceased), James Cecil, and Jason McCoy. Though Paula's time on earth was brief, Gertrude carried her memory in her heart every day. Her sons were her pride and joy—her love for them was fierce, unconditional, and enduring. She was their greatest cheerleader, their confidante, and their guiding light. Her heart swelled with even more love when she became a grandmother to her beloved granddaughter, London. The joy and pride she felt for London radiated from her smile every time they were together.

A Time to Learn
Gertrude was a proud graduate of Huntington High School, Class of 1957. During her time there, she was actively involved in numerous clubs and organizations, including the Girls Athletic Association, Social Studies Club, Student Council, Library Club, and the Presidents Club. Her leadership qualities and vibrant personality were evident even in her youth. After high school, she continued her education at Peninsula Business College, where she further developed the skills that would support her successful career and lifelong commitment to service. Her passion for learning never waned, and she later earned a two-year degree in Accounting from Christopher Newport University, equipping her with the knowledge and expertise that would serve her well throughout her professional journey.

A Time for Work
Gertrude was a determined and hardworking woman whose career journey reflected her unwavering dedication and ambition. She began working in food services at Mary Immaculate Hospital while still in high school, demonstrating her strong work ethic from an early age. After graduating from Peninsula Business College, she embarked on her professional path at the Newport News Housing Authority. Driven by a desire to provide more for her family, Gertrude pursued a civil service career with the federal government, where she quickly rose through the ranks. Her exemplary service took her to Fort Eustis, Fort Monroe, and Naval Base Norfolk, culminating in her role as Service Group Director with the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) in Norfolk, Virginia. After 40 years and 8 months of distinguished service, Gertrude retired on January 31, 2007, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, leadership, and inspiration.

A Time to Serve
Gertrude's professional life was marked by excellence, leadership, and a deep commitment to service. During her tenure with the federal government, she received numerous awards in recognition of her outstanding contributions. She generously gave her time and talents beyond her career, volunteering as Chair of the Supervisory Committee for the Credit Union at Fort Monroe for an impressive twenty years. She also served on the Board of Directors for Life Center, Inc., where her insight and dedication made a lasting impact. A gifted communicator and educator, Gertrude led numerous workshops on taxation and volunteered her time to support the Math/Science Summer Camp sponsored by NASA at Langley Air Force Base, helping to inspire and empower young minds.

In February 1987, Gertrude was inducted into the Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Gamma Zeta Chapter, a sisterhood that became a cherished part of her life. She served in many leadership roles, including Chapter President (1999–2003), Vice President (2004), Dean of Pledges (2001), and Chapter MOI (2007–2011). Her leadership extended nationally as well—she served as the Headquarters Fund Chair in 1999, National Treasurer from 2005 to 2009, Chair of the Finance Committee (2007–2009), and a member of the Auditing Committee in 2003 and 2005. Her dedication and service were honored when she was inducted into the Eastern Region Hall of Fame on April 29, 2005. Gertrude's faith and commitment to her church were unwavering. She was installed as a Trustee of First Baptist Church East End, where she also served as Assistant Church Treasurer in 1998. She made history as the first female Chair of the Trustee Ministry and Joint Board, a role she embraced with humility and strength. One of her most meaningful contributions was serving as Co-Chair of the Pastoral Search Committee following the passing of Pastor William J. Marshall—a responsibility she took to heart, culminating in the appointment of Pastor Gregory Howard. Gertrude was also a former President of the League of Christian Women, a member of the First Hospitality Committee, and served on the Service Board, which has since been retired. Her dedication to ministry extended to her active involvement in the Golden Key Ministry, where she continued to serve faithfully even as her health declined.

A Time to Play
Gertrude had a zest for life that was evident in everything she did. She loved to travel and, alongside her beloved Jim, explored the beauty of the United States and ventured abroad, collecting memories and stories that she loved to share with anyone who would listen. Whether it was a road trip across the country or an international adventure, Gertrude embraced every journey with excitement and curiosity. She was also an avid shopper with an impeccable sense of style. She was always elegant, polished, and perfectly accessorized. Purses were her favorite indulgence, and she often said with a smile, "If you buy the purse, you have to buy the wallet to go with it." Growing up, Gertrude was known for her clever wit and unique way of doing things. While others were busy cooking, preparing food, or cleaning, she would tie on her apron, sit down with the newspaper, and wait until everything was finished— much to the amusement of those around her. She proudly considered herself the "Queen Bee," and those who knew her would agree—she ruled with love, laughter, and just the right touch of sass.

A Time of Salvation
At an early age, Gertrude joined First Baptist Church East End, where she remained a devoted member for over seventy years. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. She believed wholeheartedly in the promises of God, often drawing strength from Luke 1:45: "Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her." Gertrude was a faithful servant, living her life with grace, compassion, and a heart for others. She was always ready with a kind word, a warm hug, or a helping hand.

A Time to Rest
Life is but a vapor—it passes in the blink of an eye. On the peaceful morning of Thursday, October 16, 2025, around 9:15 a.m., as the sun gently rose to greet the day, an angel softly whispered, "Be at rest, Gertrude; come home to God." She quietly released her earthly burdens and answered the call of her Heavenly Father. She let go of her diligent watch over her beloved family and friends and began her eternal journey home.

A Time to Mourn
Gertrude was preceded in death by her husband, James "Jim" McCoy Powell, mother and father, Eugene and Baylease Reavis; her daughter, Paula Eugenia Powell; sister, Susie Reavis; mother and father-in-law, Emuel and Notice Powell; sisters-in-law, Genevie and Jesse Powell; and brothers-in-law John Bethea, Wilbert Powell, Otis Powell and Joe Earl Claiborne.

She leaves to cherish very fond memories: her sons, James Cecil Powell (Denedra) and Jason McCoy Powell; her treasured granddaughter, London Powell; her loving sisters, Elsie Reavis and Pauline Bethea; sisters-in-law, Deloise Claiborne and LueEthel Croom-Powell; brother-in-law, Emuel Powell, Jr.; and those she lovingly called her own —"Like a Daughter," Karen Cherry (Timothy), Linda Hamlet (Kid), and Arneda Powell (Tyrone); and "Like a Son," George "Kid" Holloway (Linda) and Doug Winston (Catherine). She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members, her devoted church family, and countless friends who will forever cherish her memory.

In lieu of flowers, make a donation to First Baptist Church East End Media Ministry .

VIEWING

Wednesday, October 22, 2025                                                                                                                                                                                       3:00-6:00 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                                                                 O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home

SORORITY MEMORIAL SERVICE

Thursday, October 23, 2025                                                                                                                                                                                           10:00 a.m.                                                                                                                                                                                                                        First Baptist Church East End

FUNERAL SERVICE

Thursday, October 23, 2025                                                                                                                                                                                             11:00 a.m.                                                                                                                                                                                                                       First Baptist Church East End

O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.