Robert Powell Obituary

ROBERT LEE “BOB” POWELL, beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 1, 2025, at his home in Decatur, Georgia, surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of more than fifty years, Bobbi Powell, in 2019.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at Northminster Presbyterian Church in Macon on August 7 at 2pm. He will be laid to rest beside Bobbi at Smyrna Baptist Church cemetery in Goochland, Virginia, with a graveside service on Saturday, August 9th, at 11:00am. 

Born on June 4, 1936, in Norfolk, Virginia, Bob spent his youth as a student, football player, and lifeguard at Virginia Beach—where he also met Bobbi. He earned a business degree from a division of the College of William and Mary, now known as Old Dominion University. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, training at Parris Island and earning distinction as Outstanding Marine in his class.

Bob was a caring and empathetic person who treated others with respect and kindness. He taught by example how to live life fully and joyfully. His father contracted polio at age 36, and Bob learned from his father’s determination, a quality he embodied himself. He grew up in a home where resilience and compassion were cornerstones, values he carried with him throughout his life. His legacy lives on in the family he adored and in the countless lives he touched with his generous spirit.

Bob built a long a successful career with GEICO, beginning in Washington, D.C., and relocating to Macon in 1975 to help open GEICO’s regional office. Bob and Bobbi built a rich life together in Macon, where they raised their two daughters, Shannon and Keri, and cultivated many lasting friendships. A longtime member of Northminster Church, Bob found joy in singing in the choir.

Bob was also an avid tennis player. Sunday afternoons were spent playing mixed doubles with Bobbi and friends, often followed by gatherings on their back porch over pitchers of Bob’s signature peach daiquiris. He captained many winning USTA tennis teams and found great camaraderie with his teammates. In retirement, Bob added golf to his passions and treasured time on the course with friends.

Bob loved to travel and felt fortunate to have explored many countries in Europe, Central America, and the Caribbean. He especially enjoyed cruises, both with family and friends.

In 2017, Bob and Bobbi moved to Decatur to be closer to their daughters and their families. Living just blocks apart; they were a constant presence at family dinners and activities. Bob relished every opportunity to attend his grandchildren’s events, and the grandchildren adored his dry wit. His repurposed holiday birthday cards were legendary. He loved playing ping pong and was the reigning champion at duck pin bowling.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia and William Powell, and his brother, Bill Powell. He is survived by his daughter Shannon Powell and her husband Paul Duda, their children Abigail and Joel Duda; his daughter Keri Powell and her husband Daniel Marks, and their children Skyler, August, and Zachary Marks. He is also survived by his sister Anne Lang of Arlington, Virginia, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Donations in Bob’s memory may be made to St. Jude’s