Mr. Avery Powell Jr.

April 21, 1926 - May 25, 2018

Mr. Avery Powell, Jr., 92, of Peoria, IL transitioned to his heavenly home at 5:50 am on Friday, May 25, 2018 at Proctor Hospital with his loving and devoted wife, Bernice, at his side. Avery was born on April 21, 1926 in Clarksdale, Mississippi to Avery, Sr., and Willie (Floyd) Powell. Avery was a US Navy WWII veteran honorably serving his country as a Seaman second class from 1943 to 1946. He married the love of his life; Bernice L. (Holmes) Jones on Christmas Eve, December 24, 1964 in Peoria. Avery was the first African American Chief of Police for the Peoria Park District. He retired May 27, 1988 after over 25 years of service. Avery was an avid cubs fan, attending as many games as possible. He was a gifted gardener often sharing his harvest with the community. Avery leaves to cherish his most precious memories his beloved wife of 54 years, Bernice L. Powell; eight children; Linda Jones, Brenda Hood, Rickey Jones, Pamela Jones, Judith Jones, Karen Jones and Tony Powell all of Peoria and Earl (Linda) Powell of Chesapeake, VA; three sisters, Hattie (Charlie) Henry of Dunkin, MS, Lucy Butler of Rena Lara, MS and Marthena Mackieffee of Dunkin, MS; 14 grandchildren; 31 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; one son, Craig Powell and four siblings, Willie Mae Powell, J.D. Powell, Clair Powell and Freeman Powell. Funeral services will be held at 10 am on Saturday, June 2, 2018 at Rising Sun Christian Church with a visitation at 9 am. Pastor John L. Gibson will officiate. Avery will be laid to rest at Parkview Cemetery with Naval Military Honors. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at SimonsMortuary.com.