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Thomas Franklin “Dooly” Powell, Jr., 63, of Brinson, Ga., passed away Friday, September 24, 2021.

The funeral service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 29, 2021, at Donalsonville Church of God with Rev. Jimmy Walden and Rev. Phillip Kirkland officiating.  Interment followed at Brinson Cemetery with Carl Ingram, John Day, Jamie Rowell, Lee Powell, Jesse Powell and Zach Powell serving as active pallbearers. Samuel King, Stanley Williams, Wayne Donalson, and Dooly’s grandchildren served as honorary pallbearers.

The family received friends from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 28, 2021, at Bryant Funeral Home. Online visitors may sign the guest register at www.bryantfuneralga.com. Memorial donations may be made to: Donalsonville Church of God Family Life Center, 5060 GA-91, Donalsonville, Ga. 39845.

Thomas Franklin Powell, Jr. was born January 12, 1958, in Valdosta, Ga., the son of Thomas Franklin Sr. and Edna Earle Weems Powell. He was a graduate of Bainbridge High School, Class of 1976.  While working to become a Master Plumber, Dooly married Susan Norris in 1978. He was a member of Donalsonville Church of God and Orion Lodge #8 F&AM. Dooly also served his community as Past President of Bainbridge Shrine Club, as a member of Decatur County Construction Board, and as a City Councilman for the Town of Brinson.

Dooly Powell commanded attention in stature alone. Many believe the Lord granted him this body to simply hold his heart. He was always willing to help anyone in need and lived by the motto, “If I can’t do anything to help you, I will never do anything to hurt you.” He was a man of honor, and his word was his bond. He loved people and hosting gatherings of people. He cooked to break bread with family & friends but mostly to socialize. Dooly enjoyed fishing on the Creek and building anything. His family was a package deal…if you deal with one, you deal with all. Having family together was the epitome of a great day. Dooly left a legacy of laughter, love, and life lessons. His children and grandchildren will always remember the Dooly-isms: “If it is worth doing, it is worth doing right” and “If you want something bad enough, you will find a way to make it happen.”

Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Susan N. Powell; his children, Lee & Alicia Powell Jesse & Ashley Powell, and Zacharey & Leigh Powell, all of Brinson; his grandchildren, J.T., Haley, Emi, Caleb, Preston, Alani, and Zeke; his sister, Trisha DeThomas and her husband, Art, of Valdosta, Ga.; and a host of extended family. In addition to his parents, Dooly was preceded in death by his brother, Mike Powell.

The Powell Family would like to extend their sincere gratitude for the kindness and compassionate care provided by Dr. Shawn Surratt and Dr. Esthertan & Dr. Stephen Jackson with Archbold Home Health.

Bryant Funeral Home, located at 105 N. Florida Street, is assisting the family with arrangements. (229-246-3321)