James Ronald Powell

James Ronald Powell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on February 12, 2026, at the age of sixty-five. James was born November 3, 1960, in Salem, Missouri. James built his life around love, loyalty, and providing for the people he cared about most. He married his wife Karen on February 6, 1988. He raised three children with his devoted wife, Adam, Nick, and Sarah McGraw. He was the proud grandfather of eleven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He also raised two of his grandchildren, Landon and Shakota, playing a special and hands-on role in their lives. For many years, James worked on wells for L & J Pump Company, dedicating himself to hard work and providing for his family. He was a true provider-dependable, strong and consistent in making sure those he loved were taken care of. Rock Music was one of James’ greatest passions. He spent most of his life playing guitar in a band with friends, John Chaplin and John Woods, rocking out right up until his passing. His love for rock music was matched by his love of lottery tickets with hopeful excitement, watching soap operas with Karen, cheering on WWE, hunting and dirt bikes with that same adventurous spirit. He was an avid Coca Cola drinker. Some of James’ favorite moments were when family gathered at his home for barbecues and outdoor movies Surrounded by laughter and the people he loved most, those evenings meant everything to him. Though he was quiet with his love, his pride in his family was unmistakable. He loved deeply and unconditionally, showing it not always in words, but in actions, loyalty, and presence. James leaves behind a legacy of music, strength, devotion, and family unity. He will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who knew him. James is survived by his loving wife: Karen Powell of Salem, MO; children: Sarah McGraw and Nick McGraw and wife Staci; siblings: Tammy Kleinheider and husband Mark of New Haven, MO and David Powell and wife Annette of Salem, MO; special grandchildren: Landon and Shakota; grandchildren: Nicholas Jr., Ciarra, Nathan, Josh, Mercedes, Kirstin, Issac, Kailani, and Meliah; great-grandchildren: Laylah, Keeleigh, Ivy, Maeve, Alice, and Alijah; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding him in death were his son: Adam McGraw; father: Ronald Powell; mother: Sonja Nash and husband Jerry; sisters: Jeri Powell and Lisa Volner; and his sister-in-law: Sherry Gibbs. A Celebration of Life Service was held February 25, 2026, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Chris Hendrix officiating. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of James to help with final expenses. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Condolences may be left online at www.wilsonmortuary.com

James Ronald Powell

November 3, 1960 - February 12, 2026