Lucille (Robinson) Powell

Lucille Robinson Powell, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and community pillar, peacefully transitioned to glory on Friday, January 24th, 2025, at the age of 98. Surrounded by her loving family, she departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering dedication to her family and friends.

Born on Monday, October 4th, 1926, to the late Deacon Jimmie Robinson, Sr. and Cornelia Turner Robinson, Lucille was one of fourteen siblings, all of whom preceded her in death, except for her brother, Deacon Samuel B. Robinson, Sr. (Michaelene) of Emporia, Virginia. Lucille accepted Christ at an early age at Salem Baptist Church in Emporia, Virginia, where she was a faithful member. Later, while attending Poplar Mount Baptist Church with her husband, she served as a dedicated member of the church choirs. Upon relocating to Newport News, Virginia, Lucille joined New Beech Grove Baptist Church, where she remained a member until her passing.

Lucille was a dedicated worker throughout her life, with a strong commitment to service. She worked for twenty years at Southampton Textile, where she was not only a skilled machinist but also a passionate advocate for her fellow workers. As an active member of the union (ACTWU), Lucille fought for wage increases and equality in the workforce. Never one to shy away from hard work, she embarked on a second career as a cafeteria worker at Newport News Public Schools (NNPS), where she continued to embody the values of faith, dedication, and service.

In 2019, Lucille moved to Williamsburg, Virginia, where she embraced independence and formed deep, lasting connections with her neighbors and the community she cherished. Despite living in Hampton Roads for many years, Lucille’s love for her hometown of Emporia, Virginia, never wavered. She fondly recalled her childhood days spent shaking peanuts, picking cotton, and walking over three miles to school, all while taking great pride in her roots. She often shared her love for Emporia, fondly coining the phrase, “Emporia, all around the world.” 

Lucille’s life was defined by her unwavering faith, joy, and kindness, which touched everyone she encountered. She was a guiding light within her family and community, offering wisdom through what she called “Luism” her own life principles, which were simple, yet profound. Some of her cherished sayings included, “Start out the way you want to end up,” “I go for peace,” and “Work hard and stay humble.” Lucille’s Luism became a cherished legacy passed on to her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and countless young people in her community, leaving behind a blueprint for living a life full of purpose, peace, humility, and hard work.

Lucille was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Trustee Mercie V. Powell, Sr., and by her sons, Mercie V. Powell, Jr. and Leroy Powell, as well as her granddaughter, Felicia Smith.

Lucille leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Ophelia Mae Powell Daniels of Newport News, Virginia, and Marner Lynett Powell Harris (Ervin Sr.) of Williamsburg, Virginia; her surviving grandchildren, Melissa Daniels Moses (William Sr.), Ervin Harris Jr. (Angie), David Powell, Thomas Daniels Jr. (Beverly), Dr. Tonya Harris, Esq., Demond Powell, and Demarcus Powell; and her great-grandchildren, William Moses Jr., Laurence Moses, Ryan Moses, Clifton Price, Eric Harris, Nena Daniels, Justin Daniels, Joshua Chandler, Adrianna Powell, Christina Harris, Mya Daniels, Jovan Powell, Keara Powell, and her bonus great-granddaughter, Tayler DeDeaux.

Lucille is also survived by her brother-in-law, Rev. Dr. Grady W. Powell Sr. of Manassas, Virginia; sister-in-law, Geneva Powell of Richmond, Virginia; daughter-in-law, Joyce Powell of Emporia, Virginia; special friends, Willie Bea Rawlings of Emporia, Virginia, Nigeria Odwin of Newport News, Virginia and Veronica Walker of Williamsburg, Virginia; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends who will forever hold her memory close.

Lucille’s life was a testament to the power of faith, love, hard work, and service. Her impact on those who knew her will endure for generations to come. 

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mrs. Powell's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide

"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"

to the family of Mrs. Lucille Robinson Powell.

 "Diligent in Business; Fervent in Spirit." - Romans: 12:11

***TO ENSURE DESIRED FLORAL SELECTIONS AND A TIMELY DELIVERY, 

 PLEASE PLACE ORDERS THE DAY PRIOR TO THE FIRST VIEWING OF DECEASED**

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lucille (Robinson) Powell, please visit our floral store.