Petis M. Powell, born January 11, 1938, went to be with the Lord Saturday evening, December 28th with his family surrounding him. He is preceded in death by his parents, Malvin and Lillian Gordon Powell, and his sister, Nettie Laura Vaught. He is survived by his devoted wife of 48 years, Nina Givens Powell, and his three children, David Rhodes (Mary Kane), Rhonda Medley (Clay), and Rosalind Demonbreun (Mark). He is also survived by his two nephews, Mike and Stan Vaught. He instilled a deep love for nature and an enduring curiosity about the world to his nine grandchildren, Johnny Rhodes (Holly), Abbye Rhodes, Emma Sloan (Jackson), Chloe Rhodes, Tim Demonbreun (Jenna), Mary Elise Nelson (Brett), Sam Demonbreun (Sarah), Adam Rhodes, and Hallie Rhodes. He also enjoyed his great-grandchildren Henry, Haven and Hudson.

After graduating from Central High School in 1956, Petis served in Germany in the Air Force from 1960–1963. Upon returning to the States, Petis graduated from MTSU in 1965 and worked for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for 33 years. Petis was a faithful attendee of Belle Aire Baptist Church. After retiring, Petis devoted his life to traveling the world with Nina, teaching his grandchildren about the outdoors, and cherishing memories with his loved ones. Petis was humble, generous, and devoted to his family, who will miss him dearly.

Visitation will be Thursday January 2nd 12Noon until 2:00PM  at Woodfin Memorial Chapel. Funeral service will be Thursday 2:00PM at Woodfin Memorial Chapel, led by Dean Sisk, a longtime friend of the family. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. www.woodfinchapel.com