Joan (Smith) Powers

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joan (Smith) Powers, who departed this life on June 13, 2025, at age 91. Born on December 14, 1933, Joan was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, who left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her. She was a woman of remarkable generosity, boundless love, and an unwavering spirit.

Her hands were rarely still, always engaged in acts of service and love. She found immense joy in sewing and mending clothing for anyone and everyone, a testament to her giving nature. Her kitchen was often the heart of the home, where she delighted in making home-cooked meals and cherishing moments of family gathered around the table. December brought her cherished Annual Cookie Day, a tradition joyfully combined with celebrating her birthday. Her compassion extended beyond her immediate circle, as she tirelessly crocheted hats for cancer patients, offering warmth and comfort in their time of need. Her legacy of generosity continues through the material donated from her sewing room, which has so far created over 65 quilts for the Lutheran World Relief program, providing solace to those affected by natural disasters worldwide. She also dedicated her time to the patriotic act of repairing and mending United States of America flags.

"Grandma" was renowned for her culinary creations, including her famous homemade chicken noodle soup, tuna and noodles, roast and potatoes, and her special "potion." Her greatest joy, however, was found in attending her grandchildren's activities, where she was affectionately known as the "team grandma," always ready with treats for everyone.

She harbored a special affection for animals, finding companionship and joy in her beloved pets, Seth (dog) and Kitty (cat). Her passion for the outdoors shone brightly during her time driving the tram and giving tours at the Wildlife Safari Park. Even after she was no longer able to work there, her family would lovingly take her to the park, where she would proudly recreate the full tour using her flashcards, a cherished memory for all.

Joan is survived by her children: John (Kelly) Powers, Doug Powers, Kathleen (Donald) Dowding, and Janette (Brian) Bockelman. Her legacy continues through her vast family, including over 60 grand, great-grand, and great-great-grandchildren, each touched by her love and kindness.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wyland Smith and Augusta (Glup) Smith; her husband, Reginal Powers; her sisters, Loretta Darby, Hattie Selk, Jeanie Gameril, and Betty Koch; her brothers, Ed Smith, Tom Smith, Art Smith, and Elmer Smith; and her grandsons, Tony Kastens and Austin Baier.

Her spirit of generosity, her delicious meals, her comforting stitches, and her loving presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Elmwood Fire Dept., 601 N 4th St, PO Box 3, Elmwood, NE 68349, Cat House, online at thecathouse.org, or the Alzheimer's Association, online at alz.org/nebraska.

A visitation for Joan will be held Thursday, June 19, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home, 5701 Center St, Omaha, Nebraska 68106. A funeral service will occur Friday, June 20, 2025 at 10:30 AM at Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home, which will be livestreamed.

Joan will be laid to rest in Westlawn-Hillcrest Memorial Park, 5701 Center Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68106.