Linda Powell
- Howell Funeral Homes
- 23 hours ago
- 3 min read
Service
Friday, November 21, 2025|Wake: 11:00 a.m.| Service: 12:00 p.m.
First Christian Community Church| 1800 Hall Brown Road| Annapolis, Maryland 21401
Celebration of Life Live Stream Link
Interment
Cedar Hill Cemetery| 5829 Ritchie Highway| Brooklyn, Maryland 21225
Obituary
Linda Elaine Powell, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and faithful servant of God, went
home to be with the Lord on November 7, 2025, at the age of 74. She was a woman of great
faith, grace, wisdom, and love, living her life devoted to serving God and others. She touched
everyone she met with her kindness and gentle spirit.
Linda was born in Philadelphia to the late Rita Harley and the late William Earthly. A few years
later, she and her mother relocated to Petersburg, Virginia, where Linda was raised. She
graduated from Peabody High School and obtained an Associate of Science degree in
Information Systems from John Tyler Community College in Chester, Virginia. She spent several years in the United States Army Reserve.
After marrying Joseph Powell on July 3, 1976, she relocated to Maryland, where she worked as a data processor at Westinghouse/Northrop Grumman for over 20 years until her retirement. She loved traveling, cooking, and the beach, and she cherished her son, Reston, and her late daughter, Whitney. Most of all, she found immeasurable joy in her grandchildren (Reston, Evan, and Carinne), who knew her as a source of encouragement, prayer, and unconditional love.
As the devoted wife of Pastor Joseph Powell and co-founder of Covenant LifeHouse Ministries, she faithfully supported him in ministry—praying alongside him, encouraging, and sharing in the divine calling placed on their lives. Together, they served God’s people with love and humility.
Linda was blessed with the spiritual gift of wisdom, offering counsel that was both gentle and
profound. She used this gift to guide others, whether in one-on-one situations or group settings.
Despite her talents, she remained humble and preferred to serve behind the scenes, disliking the title “first lady” and instead preferring to be called simply Linda. Although she never sought titles or recognition, her life was a living sermon—filled with grace, discernment, and devotion. Her presence was never about position, but about purpose.
Much more than just a pastor’s wife, she was an encourager, a prayer warrior, and a true example of trusting God completely. When her and Pastor Powell’s daughter, Whitney, passed away 20 years ago, it was prophesied that Linda would become the mother of many. Over time, she became a spiritual mother to many, loving deeply and giving selflessly—always ready to listen, comfort, and lend a helping hand. Her church family held a special place in her heart, and she served with quiet dignity, guiding, praying, and nurturing others in faith. She was known for her big, comforting mother-bear hugs!
Whether offering a word of comfort, a listening ear, or a knowing smile, Linda embodied the
qualities of the Proverbs 31 woman: clothed in strength and dignity, speaking with wisdom, and faithful in all she did. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and wisdom that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Linda is survived by her devoted husband of 49 years, Pastor Joseph Powell; her son, Reston,
and daughter-in-law, Shayla; her grandchildren, Reston, Evan, and Carinne; her goddaughter,
Renee Steele; three brothers-in-law—Elder Tony Powell (Angela), Gerald Powell, and Clifton
Powell; one sister-in-law, Alicia Wilson (Tom); two sisters—Chanda Ellis (Herb) and Clara
Earthly; several spiritual daughters; her extended family that includes her 1st cousin Aubrey
Harley, aunt Beulah Harley and a host of uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces and cousins; as well as friends who became like family. She was preceded in death by her mother, Rita Harley; her
father, William Earthly; and her daughter, Whitney Powell.
We will forever cherish her memory and carry her legacy of faith, love, and service in our hearts.
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” — Psalm 116:15
Special words from Joe to Linda - She believed in my potential while keeping me humble, she
supported my dreams while keeping me grounded, and loved me enough to tell me.