Ellen M Powers

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1PM Friday May 9th at St. Brendan Church 1000 Oceanshore Blvd. Ormond Beach, FL., followed by a Nightingale Tribute and full military honors at Volusia Memorial Park 548 N. Nova Rd. Ormond Beach, FL.

Her deep compassion and desire to help those in need led her to pursue a career in nursing. She began as an operating room nurse in Chicago and New Jersey. In 1959, Ellen joined the United States Air Force and proudly served for 24 years, holding assignments around the world. She served as a flight nurse during the Vietnam War, later advancing into nursing administration. Throughout her distinguished service, Ellen was honored with many commendations. Most notably, she received the Meritorious Service Medal for Nursing Administration and was also awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal and Humanitarian Service Medal, reflecting her excellence in duty and helping others in times of crisis. Additionally, she earned the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with one device, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Air Force Longevity Service Award with five oak leaf clusters, recognizing her extended and committed service. At the time of her retirement, Ellen held the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

After retiring from the Air Force, Ellen married Edward Powers of Ormond Beach. The same dedication and strength that marked her service defined her life at home, where she became a steady and loving presence in the lives of her family.

Ellen is survived by her stepchildren Mary Chlipala, Edward Powers, Jr., Ellen McSherry, Jane Everhart, Carol Carlson, and Richard Powers and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents Mary Catherine O’Connell and Richard M. Kernan, sisters Bernadette Powers and Carol Wilsey and brother Richard Kernan.

Ellen was a member of the Society of Air Force Nurses and celebrated her 90th birthday with friends at the 2023 SAFN Biennial Convention in Albuquerque NM. She was an avid bridge player, a member of the Red Hat’s Society, and the Council of Catholic Women at St. Brendan Catholic church. In her spare time, Ellen was a dedicated embroiderer and made special baby quilts for each grandchild and great grandchild.