Willis Edgar 'Skinny' Powell

Willis Edgar Powell was born to Lige and Lyda (Morgan) Powell on August 19, 1934, in the Redland Community near Muldrow. He passed this life on March 28, 2023, at the age of 88 years and 7 months. Throughout his life, he was affectionately known as “Skinny” by all who knew him.

Skinny was an exceptionally gifted athlete. Seventy years later, stories still circulate about the Muldrow vs. Stilwell basketball game during his high school years. Recently, Dewey Padgett, his barber, recalled that Skinny scored 42 points in the game. By the end of the game, Skinny was the only starter left on the court, as everyone else had fouled out.

Skinny enlisted in the army at nineteen and was stationed in Germany. He told many stories about his time in the service. He especially remembered when the Rhine River froze solid enough for cars to drive over. Once his enlistment ended, Skinny attended college at Weatherford and Connors State.

Skinny continued playing sports after college. He played Semi-Pro baseball in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Until he was 40, he also played fast-pitch softball. During his life, Skinny enjoyed many weekends camping and fishing with family at Lake Tenkiller. His family considered him a master chef at cooking eggs and fried potatoes over a campfire.

Skinny also enjoyed watching others play sports. He was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, the OU Sooners, and any team playing against Arkansas. He did not like it if his team lost.

Skinny had a long and successful career with the Whirlpool Corporation. He retired after 36 years as a Supervisor.

Skinny leaves behind two children: a son, Brad Powell and wife, Lisa, of Muldrow, and daughter, Donna Owens and husband, John, of Sallisaw. His grandchildren: Lacy Short, Kelli Manes (Philip), Haley Bowden (Cody), Chelsea Hogan (Ben), Emily Quickel (Chase), Shelby James (Connor), and Joshua Branham. Great-Great grandchildren: Ashton, Hayden, Addilyn, Lynden, Brooklyn, Eden, Jozalyn, Jax, Lariat, Dallie, Jorae, Caroline, and Owen. He is survived by several nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Skinny was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Avis Powell, a sister, Helen Ruth Ross, and his only grandson, Brandon “Butch” Hendrix.

Viewing will be 10 AM – 8 PM on Friday, March 31, 2023 at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Visitation with family will occur between 6 – 8 PM. There will be a private burial at a later date.