Dorothy Ann Powell

Dorothy Ann Powell, 85, passed away unexpectedly on September 23, 2025. She was born in Le Mars, Iowa, on April 12, 1940 to Floyd Powell and Bernice (Ames) Powell. She graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Iowa, with a B.A. in Business Education, and later earned a Masters degree from the University of Colorado in Boulder, Colorado. Dorothy spent most of her teaching career at Guilford High School in Rockford, Illinois, where she initiated and administered their computer studies program.

Dorothy was an extraordinary woman. Her vibrant smile, striking blond hair, and energy lit up a room. People were her passion and she had many friends. Dorothy had a wide variety of interests and an open mind. She enjoyed sports, travel, entertaining, and cooking, while living a healthy lifestyle.

Dorothy led an active life beginning with girls’ basketball in high school and continuing on to championship golf in Rockford. She regularly organized her golf groups until the end. She loved teaching and coaching young people in their pursuit of a career as well as in the game of golf. In retirement, Dorothy spent the winter months playing golf at The Villages in Florida. In recent years, she enjoyed organizing and teaching Mahjong to her fellow residents at Wesley Willows Retirement Center.

Dorothy loved her family most of all. She is survived by her siblings Barbara Powell, Patricia Ames, and Dr. James (Christina) Powell, and her best friend Mary Johnson. Dorothy was loved and adored by her nieces and nephews Julie (Dale) Hurt, Adam (Wendy) Powell, Alyson (Darren) Palladino, and Michael (Ashley) Powell. She frequently traveled to spend time with her grand nieces and nephews, showering them with love, encouragement, and gifts.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, sister-in-law Barbara (Kock) Powell, and brother-in-law Robert Frenier.

Dorothy was a faithful and active member of Court Street United Methodist Church in Rockford for many years. She willingly volunteered to lend a helping hand when and where needed. Dorothy was also generous in her support of various other charities.

A celebration of Dorothy’s life will take place on Sunday, October 19, 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Wesley Willows Town Center, 4142 Johns Farm Road, Rockford. Rev. Cal Culpepper will preside over a memorial service to be followed by an open house reception.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of your choice. To send condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com