It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John W. Powell Jr., age 53, on July 19, 2026.
Born in Woodbury NJ and Graduating from Washington Twp High School, class of 90′, John was a master of his trade, a hardworking man, who took great pride and was well known in the painting/wallpaper industry. He had a passion for Fox Body Mustangs, Giants Football, Honda 3-wheelers, Penn State wrestling, riding dirt bikes, fishing, designing building projects, Phillies Games, a love for music and attending concerts, enjoying a zagnut bar, drawing/coloring, a good movie – an even better movie quote, finding treasures at yard sales, working on cars, enjoying his minibike, making jokes, cooking for his loved ones, a hot cup of coffee, and every other simple moment spent with those he loved.
John especially loved and cherished antique shopping with Ryan, talking with Ava, reading books with Memphis and spending his summers at the lake. Above all, John was a devoted father and family man. His greatest legacy was his children.
John is survived by his loving mother Jacquline McAllister (Gares). His children Ryan, Ava, and Memphis Powell. His sister Alexis Iannelli (John) Olivia, Robert, Sofia, & Nicolas. John is remembered by Nick Hionas, Luke and Sadie Miller, whom he guided and loved as his own. Sadly, John is leaving behind his devoted love, Velann Tomlin, who stood by his side through his final chapters of life’s journey.
John will be forever remembered for his kind heart, his willingness to help others, his strength and perspective with which he faced life; his love of adventure and travel, his ability to remember all important dates, and the smile and laughter he brought to those around him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
John’s family is planning a celebration of his life and details will follow.
Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the memories he leaves behind and the love he shared so freely. John will be forever loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.
Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of John W. Powell, Jr. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME, Gloucester City, NJ. Ph: 856-456-1142.
To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.
RIP- John learned his painting skills from his step dad, his sisters father. He would work with him in Philly. He had a real talent with painting and wallpapering. His work was undeniably unique. Almost untouchable. He loved his children very much. Before painting, he was a dealer, working private parties, the casino. He was a jackle of many trades. He had a 2001 Mustang that won medals, ribbons, etc. That car was elite, a toy from his 1st marriage. Boys and their toys. His grandfather’s house was his comfort, his hearts home! He looked up to grandfather very much. He was a big part of his heart. 07, John was married again, and this is where his life began. He always wanted kids, but was unlucky until his 2nd wife. He had a boy and a girl, Ryan and Ava. They were both his biggest blessings. He loved them very much. Nick became his step son w/in that marriage. He put him in wrestling and Nick flew with that. Nick was really good with wrestling. Who would have known. He even coached the little kids wrestling for a few years in Pitman, to help Nicholas focus and be great. After his divorce from his 2nd wife, John met another woman. With her, he had Memphis. John was very educated in life with a lot of things. He struggled with doing the right things, but he loved his children. At the end of his rope, his girlfriend really did help him with a lot and was there for him to the end. Its very sad that his life ended abruptly at a young age of 53. One of the last things said to me was, I’m sorry, you were right, take care of yourself, continue to take care of our kids, I’m proud of you, and thank you for our kids. He said my super power was to survive! John and I struggled to see things the same way, but in the end, he was smart, funny, always optimistic, didn’t take crap, and really loved a handful of the people in his life. He had a funny way of showing it. I pray for his children. They endured the biggest loss. May time heal their wounds and they find comfort in their mothers. Gone and never forgotten, RIP Jonny