Dorothea L. (Papoose) Powell

Dorothea Leatrice Powell (affectionately known as “Papoose”) was born on August 9, 1957 in Olney, Maryland to the late Claudine Berry and William Powell. She peacefully passed away at Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, after a lengthy illness. Dorothea began her walk with Jesus Christ as a child, walking to Sunday school and Vacation Bible School with her sisters. As a young adult, she accepted the Lord as her Savior, joining Mt. Gregory United Methodist Church. While her health limited her ability to attend church regularly she enjoyed reading her bible, cards from the church and staying connected and informed. Recently, she enjoyed praying for and with Rev. McCain. Dorothea attended the Howard and Montgomery County Public Schools, graduating from Gaithersburg High School in 1975. During high school she was a cheerleader and served as Vice -President of her Senior Class. She continued her education majoring in nursing at Tuskegee University from 1975 until 1978. Dorothea was determined to complete her education, overcoming her daily challenges as she lifted her wheelchair in and out of her hand-controlled car. Dorothea graduated with honors from the University of Maryland Baltimore County with a B. A., in Health Science and Policy in 1999. Dorothea worked as a Medical Research Surveyor for the Jackson Organization and as a Client Development Administrator for Stegman and Company both based in Columbia, Maryland. Dorothea served as the President of the Board of Directors for On Our Own of Howard County in 1995. She received a Life Achievement Award from the Maryland Association of Psychiatric Support Services for her dedication. During this time, Dorothea faithfully led her family in volunteering to serve the annual “Sunday Supper” for the clients of On Our Own. The family served for over twenty years out of their love for Dorothea. She continued her involvement with the organization for as long as her health allowed. Dorothea enjoyed getting together with family for special occasions. She smiled the brightest when her nieces and nephews came to visit. Dorothea claimed each one of them as her child. She loved to listen to music, especially the Doobie Brothers, the Commodores, and Janis Joplin. Dorothea loved to travel and her favorite place was Rome, Italy. Surviving to cherish her memories are her sisters; Audrey Berry, Credella Duvall (Russell), McShelia Farmer, Carolyn Jones, Marva Sonnier and Janet Bennett; uncles, Elroy Powell and Robert Powell; and a host of devoted nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Dorothea Leatrice Powell funeral details Saturday, January 31, 2026 Family Hour: 11:00 - 12:00 Noon Service: 12:00 Noon Mount Gregory United Methodist Church 2325 Route 97 Glenwood, Maryland 21738 Reverend Terry L. McCain, Officiating Online condolences may be offered at www.haightfuneralhome.com

Dorothea L. (Papoose) Powell

August 9, 1957 - January 14, 2026