Leland Templeton Powell

Leland Templeton Powell, 85, died peacefully on November 4, 2015. He was predeceased by his father, Howard Mitchell Powell; mother, Claire Templeton Powell; and sister, Lyna Powell Forgy. Leland was born in Sewanee, TN on April 1, 1930. He was raised in Winchester, TN, and as a young boy, he enjoyed spending time at his grandfather's hardware store, as well as fishing with his Uncle Harry and building balsa wood airplanes. He graduated from Castle Height's Military Academy, 1948; Sewanee: The University of the South, B.A., Optime Merens, 1952; and Vanderbilt University, M.A., 1956. Leland was a decorated Korean War Veteran, honored with the Bronze Star, yet he was quietly modest about his brave service in the Signal Corps of the Army's 45th Infantry Division. He had a 35 year career at the Lockheed Martin Corporation, where he lived in Winter Park, FL. Leland was a beloved husband for 52 years, having married on July 2, 1963 in Nashville, TN. He was a loving father who cherished time spent raising his children, and, along with his wife, was their biggest fan at swim meets. He was an avid gardener, who tended gorgeous roses, loved to tell stories to anyone who would listen, and he simply enjoyed life. Family meant the world to Leland and he devoted his adult life to caring for his parents, wife, children, and grandchildren, always with a smile on his face. Leland was known for his endless patience, happy disposition, gentle hand, and attention to detail. He had a courageous spirit and never raised his voice in anger. He loved to be out and about and was always ready to go on a moment's notice. Leland retired to Charlotte, NC to be close to his granddaughters and liked to spend time with family in Blowing Rock, NC. He was a member of the Mallard Creek Presbyterian Church and was known by all as a kind-hearted soul and true gentleman. He is survived by his wife, Carleen Old Powell; daughter, Leigh Ann Powell (Joni); son, Leland Templeton Powell, Jr. (Melanie); and granddaughters Katelyn Ashley Powell and Ansley Elizabeth Powell. There was a private family memorial and arrangements were made at Hankins & Whittington Funeral Service in Charlotte, NC. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund: www.curealz.org.