Dr. Powers replaced George Trabing as the diector of the TDCJ-UHCL college program in 1997. I was a student in the M. A. Humanities program on the Ramsey Unit at the time. Dr. Powers also taught history classes in the program. He empathized with the inmate students' living conditions, made us laugh with stories about the Nascar races he attended, and, most importantly, encouraged us to pursue a higher education. He DID change many lives, including mine, and his unselfish efforts were appreciated by many. 
      After release from TDCJ I kept in touch with him via phone calls. He shared the info that he had his pancreas removed and his health was fragile. I sent a Arkansas Razorback shirt to him. He said he would wear it, but he wouldn't wear an OU shirt!
    May he rest in peace.
  A. Bagley, Ph.D.

Bill remains in my mind and I am wondering sometimes what he would think of this situation or that in the world, as we both enjoyed talking about current events.  He brought joy and enlightenment to many people!  I send my warm thoughts to Alvi and Jared.

I was totally caught off guard to hear about Dr. Powers' passing today. I did not know. I wrote an email to him this week but heard no reply so I was about to call the college to speak with him when I read about his passing. If not for him, I would not have believed in myself to get to where I am. One of my life's goals was to be able to call him Bill, as he told us noone can call him Bill unless they too held a doctorate's degree. I am finally about to get mine next year and was looking to inform him that I would be calling him Bill next year. This news really touched me today. I did not see this coming. 
Jonathan Seals, MSCJ, LCDC

As one of his healthcare providers (Walgreens), I have to say Dr Powers was an outstandingly incredible individual. May his memories be a blessing to all he's touched. Condolences are extended to friends and family.

Dr. Powers was an amazing professor who brought a kind of energy to the classroom that I absolutely adored. I had him for two classes and I loved learning from him. He was electrifying and he was an inspiration. Working in the jail was so admirable. I will miss you Dr. Powers. Hope the EDM is great in heaven!

I’m heartbroken by the loss of my colleague and dear friend, Dr. Powers. Working alongside him was a gift. He brought not just passion and dedication to the job, but also kindness, laughter, and a genuine spirit.

Over time, we became more than coworkers—we became friends. I will deeply miss our conversations, his support, and the laughter he shared so freely. He was such a funny guy, and his sense of humor brightened many stressful workdays.

My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. Dr. William “Bill” Powers left a lasting mark on my life, and I will always be grateful to have known him.

My deepest condolences to Bill's family during this time of profound sorrow. Bill was a treasured friend and colleague throughout my years at UHCL. After transferring to UHCL Pearland, it always felt like a divine coincidence whenever we crossed paths in the hallways as I hurried to meetings at UHCL. Our conversations about Texas government, college football, and his beloved Aggies were always memorable. He adored his wife and was immensely proud of his son. May God's peace be with you always.

I’m so sorry to learn of Bill’s passing. I can’t attend his funeral because of medical issues. Please accept my condolences. 
 Carol Molina

Learning of Bill's passing was a terrible shock, as we had just had a lovely conversation by phone, over 90 minutes actually.  I had been impressed by how energetic he seemed, and looking forward to new endeavors.  Bill and I had worked together for about 25 years through Continuing Education programs at the University, and we also had offices directly across the hall from one another for many years.  Either Bill or I would be running across the hall regularly to share information, get/give advice, etc.   It was a wonderful friendship and I feel so fortunate to have enjoyed this for 25 years.  Our programs benefited greatly from Bill's knowledge and dynamic presentation style.  We all learned constantly from him.  I am really sad at Bill's passing, but when I think of him, I find myself smiling when I recall immediately all the funny and outrageous things that he said, all the while, sharing his extensive knowledge of history and current events.  Thank you, Bill, for being a part of my life!

One of my favorite topics to lecture on in my sociology  class is on groups and organizations. I discuss group dynamics, including the various types of leaders. Sociologists examine instrumental and expressive leadership styles, and I always emphasize to my students that having a leader who embodies both styles - being pragmatic yet approachable - is the ultimate ideal.

I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work under someone who epitomized this perfect blend. 

Bill Powers was that exceptional leader. He was the director of "Transforming Lives by Degrees", a program that brought higher education to Texas penitentiaries. I had the privilege of working under his guidance for over 25 years, and his unwavering appreciation for our hard work was often expressed in his emails. His passion for his work was contagious, and his tireless advocacy for our students left an indelible mark.

I heard of Bill’s passing last week.  To say I was devastated is an understatement. I will miss his leadership, guidance and friendship.  He will live on through the program and through the  lives that were changed as a result of his work. 

Rest in Peace.

So sad to hear of Billy’s passing. I will have the memories of years together overseas and our families fishing on the North Concho. Rest easy old friend.

Bill,  so many of my memories  of you are from your Dad;  where do I start?  A flying sandwich on the island of Crete, your VW slipping  into the lake, an inspired afro,  you and your Dad sitting outside smoking cigars.  Thank you for the precious memories,  and your open hearted welcome  to me.  Your Dad loved you so much, and was so proud of your Aggie lineage.   You will be so missed.

Bill Powers was a wonderful teacher and an honorable man. He will be missed terribly at the university and by all who knew him.

To all of Bill's family and dear friends and colleagues,
I have known Dr. Bill Powers for nearly 25 years as my supervisor, mentor, colleague and friend. He has always been good to me and provided much needed encouragement and support during some difficult times over the years. I will sorely miss him as all of us will. We are all shocked and saddened by his untimely loss.
I deeply regret that I will not be able to attend Bill's memorial service on Wednesday as I am unable to take off from work.  Please accept my deepest condolences and know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. 
Sincerely,
Dr. Steve McLain

OBITUARY

William Preston Powers Jr.

March 7, 1962 – May 20, 2025

The Settegast-Kopf Company at Sugar Creek

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