Jeannie Powell, age 86, of Forest City, died Thursday, March 3, 2022, at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC.

She was the daughter of the late Pete Gillespie and the late Lena Gillespie. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years Eugene Powell; brother Charles Gillespie; sister Shirley Carpenter and son-in-law Steve Abbey.

Jeannie was a native of Van, WV. She was an avid NASCAR fan and liked to travel with her friend Rita. She also enjoyed treasure hunting and dancing. She had many special lake friends from Lake Murray, Lake Adger and Lake James.  She was an educator in Rutherford County for over 30 years.

Survivors include:

Two Daughters: Deborah Toney (Dale) Sandie Powell Abbey

One Son: Samuel Eugene Powell (Bonnie)

One Sister: Ann Claytor

Special Nephew: Tony Claytor

Six Grandchildren

Twelve great-grandchildren

The family will receive friends from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM, Monday, March 7, 2022 at McMahan's Funeral Home.  The funeral service will be at 3:00 PM, Monday, March 7, 2022 with Reverend Ronald  Roberts and Reverend William Swink officiating. Interment will be at Eternal Hills Memorial Park.  In lieu of flowers memorials to Hospice of Carolina Foothills; P O Box 336 Forest City, NC 28043 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital; 501 St. Jude Place; Memphis, TN 38105.  McMahan's Funeral Home & Cremation Services in charge of arrangements.