SAN ANGELO, Texas — A much-beloved community member is being mourned after the announcement of her death was made by Congressman August Pfluger.
Joanne Powell, who served her country alongside late husband Col. Charles Powell, U.S. Air Force (retired), and her state as an aide to several congressional members died Wednesday.
Powell was a staple at many community events throughout West Texas and was highly regarded by many.
Pfluger posted this on his official Facebook account:
"It is with utter grief and sadness that Camille and I must announce the passing of Joanne Powell, a beloved member of my team and one of the most treasured pillars of the San Angelo community.
Joanne has served the constituents of the 11th District of Texas for over 35 years in the San Angelo Congressional office. During this time, she solved thousands of cases with federal agencies, and was the eyes and ears of the office—identifying and correcting needs on the ground. Her pride and joy in the office was mentoring hundreds of young men and women, including myself, through the service academy application process and helping dozens receive appointments.
Every day, she made the lives of someone in the Concho Valley a little bit easier—and a lot brighter.
She trained four congressmen over her tenure, which begun with Tom Leoffler and continued on with Lamar Smith, Mike Conaway, and now myself. I have been fortunate to have known her almost my entire life, and it has been a priceless honor to have her mentorship and guidance as I begin my journey in Congress.
Joanne was the epitome of service above self—working right up until the very end and even handling casework this week. She genuinely cared for each person she served and showed Christ’s love to everyone. I cannot express how great this loss is to my team and the entire 11th District.
Joanne was an absolute jewel of the Concho Valley with unmatched compassion, dedication, and love for others. The influence that she and her beloved husband Charlie have had on this community since they first saved Goodfellow Air Force Base from closure in the 1980’s cannot be overstated.
Please keep her daughter Terri, son-in-law Bryan, grandchildren Colin and Katie, and all of her family and friends in your prayers during this time."
FOX West Texas reached out to Congressman Pfluger's office for comment late Wednesday afternoon. More information will be shared as it becomes available.
