Dorothy A. Powell

Dorothy Powell, 88, of Rockford passed away on October 4, 2018, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born June 22, 1930, in West Plains, Missouri, the second child of four to Charles and Emma (Ledbetter) Dixon. Married Odell Powell on December 18, 1948, in Rockford, Illinois. Member of North Park Church of Christ. Odell and Dorothy had a desire to own their own business and purchased the Sandy Hollow Grocery Store. Later, Odell built Powell's Laundromat, and they continued their business growth by purchasing the Brooke Road Laundry and Cleaners. They expanded their business by opening Powell's Tuxedo World. Dorothy and Odell always worked side by side in all their business endeavors. During their marriage they took the time to travel the world, including places such as Australia, Italy, Ireland, England, Rio de Janeiro, and Monte Carlo. Dorothy traveled to China with her granddaughter, Meegan Crown.

Dorothy enjoyed collecting Depression glass, playing Bingo and cards (especially Skippo), and was known as the keeper of the family ancestry. She began painting while wintering in Las Vegas and has numerous paintings displayed in her home.

Dorothy is survived by her two daughters, Carol Peterson and Colleen Crown of Rockford, five grandchildren: Roger (Ellen) Peterson, MA; Karen Peterson, CA; Catherine (Darin) Franco, CA; Julie (Brad) Brees, Rockford; and Meegan Crown, TX; seven great grandchildren; brother, John Dixon, CA; a special niece, Darla Dixon, FL; and several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her loving husband of 60 years, Odell Powell; brother, Fred Dixon; sister, Helen Cassady; and both parents. The family would like to thank Heartland Hospice for their care and compassion.

Visitation is 5:00 to 7:00 pm, Monday, October 8, 2018, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, 3910 N. Rockton Avenue, Rockford. Funeral service will be held 10:00 am, Tuesday, October 9, 2018, also at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, with Jerry Gibson officiating. Private interment at Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to the family which will be used to establish a memorial for Dorothy at a later date. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.