Alma Powell, an esteemed military spouse and the wife of former Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell, has passed away at the age of 86. Her death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to service, family, and community.
Born Alma Vivian Johnson in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1935, she met her future husband while they were both students at City College of New York. They married in 1962 and embarked on a journey that would take them around the world and into the highest echelons of American government and society.
As the wife of a military officer, Alma Powell embraced the challenges and opportunities that came with a life of constant movement and change. She raised their three children while her husband served in Vietnam, Korea, and various posts around the United States. Throughout it all, she remained a pillar of strength and support for her family, always there to provide comfort and guidance in times of need.
In addition to her role as a military spouse, Alma Powell was also a dedicated advocate for military families and veterans. She served on the board of several organizations, including the National Military Family Association and the Red Cross, working tirelessly to improve the lives of those who serve their country.
Her commitment to service extended beyond the military community. Alma Powell was also a passionate advocate for education and literacy, serving as the chair of America’s Promise Alliance, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of young people across the country. She understood the power of education to transform lives and worked tirelessly to ensure that all children had access to the opportunities they needed to succeed.
In her later years, Alma Powell continued to be a force for good in the world, using her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart. She was a beloved figure in Washington, D.C., known for her warmth, grace, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
Her passing is a loss not only to her family but to the entire nation. Alma Powell’s legacy of service, compassion, and dedication will continue to inspire generations to come. She will be remembered as a true patriot, a devoted wife and mother, and a tireless advocate for those in need.
As we mourn the loss of Alma Powell, let us also celebrate the incredible life she lived and the impact she had on all those who were fortunate enough to know her. May her memory be a blessing and may her spirit live on in the countless lives she touched.
