Roberta (Bobbie) Powell

On April 12th, 2023 Roberta (Bobbie) Powell age 94 passed away peacefully surrounded by her children and her wonderful husband of 46 years Dr. Gordon W. Powell, who demonstrated unwavering love and support throughout their married life. Her remarkable spirit will continue to illuminate and inspire those she touched. Bobbie was born in Kingsford, Michigan, January 10, 1929. She was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Anna Hanson, sisters and brothers Sheila Hanson, Audrey Richards, Iris Bates, Wallace Hanson, Lois Ericksen, Marie LaJeunesse, Vernon Hanson, and Alton Hanson. She was the youngest of 10 children (one passed at birth). In addition to her husband Gordon, she is survived by her children from her previous marriage to Dr. George R. St. Pierre: Anne-Renee Grayson (Ron Oman), Jeanne St. Pierre (Thomas Zack), John St. Pierre (Kathylynn), Tom St. Pierre. She is also survived by Gordon’s children: David Powell (Nancy), Erik Powell (Missy), Craig Powell, and Norman Powell (Vicki). Her grandchildren include: Jenna Grayson (Jon Ayre), Nels Oman III, Richard and Griffin Zack, Austin, Jordan (Mandy), Spencer and Remy Powell, Tyler, Parker and Kevin St.Pierre, Clay and Carter St.Pierre, Amy and Lauren Powell, Michael and Addie Mitiska, and Summer Powell. Great grandchildren include Camilla, Henry, and George. Bobbie and Gordon created a beautiful bond between two families totaling 8 children, 18 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren who remember her as the spirited and creative mother and grandmother she was. It was Bobbie and Gordon’s love, kindness and thoughtfulness that brought the two families (St.Pierre and Powell) together. Quite by accident at the age of 47 after never being a part of the art world, Bobbie discovered her talent. She studied at three universities and always received an “A” in art but never pursued a formal degree. She was always a champion of others and much of her artwork focused on world issues regarding inequality, hunger and political injustice using clay and fiberglass. She was an incredibly kind person who always saw the best in everyone and wanted to communicate her love of humanity through her art. Her commissions include a former State Governor and Mayor and other prominent figures in Columbus. She gives credit to James Mason and the Columbus Cultural Arts Center for making her art possible. She soon became an award winning sculptor, winning a statewide competition which included an award that she donated to charity. Her major art contribution is nine life size starving refugees called “Inhumanity”. This collection traveled extensively throughout the United States and generated numerous contributions to combat world hunger. The Columbus Museum of Art has two sculptures of Roberta’s (Bobbie’s) work permanently installed of Elijah Pierce the 20th century wood carver. Elijah became Bobbie’s friend as she sculpted him. She also was asked to have one of the first exhibits at The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center in Worthington (MAC). She thanks John Cook and Kimberlee Goodman, the center and the community for supporting her work. Two of her pieces remain on display on the center’s front lawn. Her iconic “Mermaid” was recently refurbished and restored to its original glory, and the Bronze “Bird Watcher” remains near the entrance of the MAC. The day before Bobbie passed, accompanied by Gordon and her children, she was able to see her “Mermaid” sculpture thanks to the MAC. Bobbie always communicated her appreciation of her family and friends and we would like to thank everyone, including the Worthington Christian Village and their kind and loving staff for the excellent care Bobbie received. In her final years, Bobbie left many written notes, this one is special: “I love you all so much, and I wish all of you future lives as truly great as mine has been.” An open house celebration of Roberta’s (Bobbie’s) beautiful life will be held at the Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center, 777 Evening St., Worthington, OH 43085, Sunday June 4th from 5:30 to 7:30pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to support the arts and those in need.

Roberta (Bobbie) Powell

January 10, 1929 - April 12, 2023