Eleanor Marie Powell

Eleanor Marie (Nuels) Powell was born on November 8, 1954, in Houston, Texas, to the loving parents Walter Loyd Nuels and Hattie Mae (Bingham) Nuels. She was the youngest of eleven children (Elow, Benjamin, Priscilla, Loretta, Lil Walter, Lil Lawrence, Walter Jr., Larry, Paulina & Lionel Nuels) and was affectionately known as the baby girl of the family. As a child, Eleanor enjoyed playing softball and spending time with her neighborhood friends. She attended M.C. Williams School and later earned her degree in Political Science from Texas Southern University.

Eleanor began her long and dedicated career with the United States Postal Service, where she worked faithfully for 38 years before retiring.

At a young age, Eleanor accepted Christ as her Savior. Following the passing of her beloved mother in 1964, her father later remarried Elise Mae Nuels, who continued to care for Eleanor with great love. In time, Eleanor met her prince charming, Ellis D. Powell of La Grange, Texas and through their marriage, she gained another loving mother figure, Estella Mae Powell, affectionately known as “Madea.” Their bond was strong and unbreakable.

Eleanor and Ellis built a beautiful life together in Houston and were blessed with three children: Ellis Jr., Timothy and Antoinette Powell. She also assisted in the care and nurturing of her cherished grandchildren, Prenesha, Cory, Elexis, Ellison, Timothy Jr., Jovoire, Jessica, Ellisander & Ellisavior whom she adored deeply. Her family tree continued to grow, eventually blessing her with nine great-grandchildren. Eleanor also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Eleanor was a lifelong woman of faith. She was a devoted member of New Hope Baptist Church from childhood and later joined The Daily Bread Church under the leadership of her son, Dr. Ellis Powell, where she served faithfully as the “Mother of the Church”.

Eleanor was called home to be with the Lord on November 5, 2025, surrounded by her children. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ellis D. Powell, her son Timothy D. Powell, her grandson Timothy D. Powell Jr., and several brothers and sisters. She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Ellis and Antoinette, along with many loved ones who celebrate her remarkable life, love and legacy.

A visitation for Eleanor will be held Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Paradise Funeral Home, 10401 W. Montgomery Rd., Houston, TX 77088. A celebration of life will immediately follow from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The committal service will be held Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 12:30 PM to 01:00 PM at Paradise Cemetery North, 10401 West Montgomery, Houston, TX 77088.