W. Arlene Powers

W. Arlene Powers, age 102, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026, her 102nd birthday, at the family farm in Lee Township. She was born on May 6, 1924, in Walton Township, Eaton County, Michigan, the daughter of Donald and Vera (Johnson) Hall. Arlene lived a life marked by steadfast devotion to her family and community, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and determination.

Arlene graduated from Olivet High School in 1941. On March 10, 1942, she married the love of her life Ernest "Ernie" Powers. She spent many years working at the local bank, where her professionalism and commitment were well respected. Alongside her career, she embraced the vital role of farm wife with admirable vigor, nurturing her family and the land with a spirit that was feisty and strong-willed.

Known affectionately as Arlene, she was a woman who cherished the simple pleasures of life. She took great joy in mowing her lawn, savoring the outdoor work that connected her to her home and surroundings. Traveling with Ernie, she explored new places and shared treasured moments that brought her happiness. Always prepared, Arlene was known to carry her trusty fly swatter in every vehicle, a charming emblem of her practical nature and unyielding resolve to ensure that no pesky critter spoiled her journey.

Arlene’s greatest pride and joy was her family, whom she adored deeply. She was their cornerstone, a guiding light whose feisty spirit and unwavering love provided comfort and strength through the years. Her memory is preserved in the hearts of those who knew her as a hardworking, resilient woman who faced life’s challenges with determination and grace.

Arlene was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ernie; and siblings, Ken (Pauline) Hall, Harold (Genevieve) Hall, Thela (Dick) Hewitt, June (Lester) O'Teney.

She is survived by her son, Bruce Powers; daughter, Phyllis (Allan) Ried; grandchildren, Kirt (Dawn) Powers, Kevin Powers, Matt (Amanda) Ried, Brian Ried; 11 great-grandchildren; and 7 great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 11 A.M. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 2 P.M. to 4 P.M. and 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. and on Monday from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Bosworth Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in Arlene's memory to Eaton Community Palliative Care 2675 S. Cochran Road, Charlotte, MI 48813 or Oaklawn Hospice 13444 Preston Drive, Marshall, MI 49068.

To view Arlene's obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com