Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Sandra Jean Weiss Powell died from complications of Covid on August 24, 2021, at the age of

84. She was surrounded by the love of her family.

Sandra was born on June 3, 1937, in Saddle River NJ. Raised in Homestead Fl. and was a long-time resident of Spartanburg SC. Sandra was the daughter of the late Walter Weiss and late Harriett Bierbrier Weiss.

Mrs. Powell received her undergraduate degree in Education from Duke University, where she met and fell in love with her husband of 63 years. She later received both a Master of Education and a Master of Arts in Teaching degree from Converse College. She was employed by Spartanburg District 7 Schools and taught Science at Evans & McCracken Jr. High Schools before transitioning to teach Biology at Spartanburg Technical College.

Sandra was an accomplished equestrian, lover of Shelties, a passionate naturalist and bird watcher. She was a proud leader of Delta Kappa Gamma for Women Teachers, a lifelong member, and leader of Scouting, including being the leader of the Girl Rangers. Since 1963 Sandra was an active member at St. Paul United Methodist Church where she enjoyed participating in the Altar Guild, teaching Sunday School and singing in the choir. She especially loved spending time with family and friends and graciously opened her home to many over the years.

Mrs. Powell is survived by her devoted husband, Dr. Robert (Botany Bob) W. Powell Jr. of the home; daughters, Sherryl Dodd (Chuck) of Alexandria, VA, Roberta McKinney (Dr. Dean McKinney) of Campobello, SC, Dr. Fern Powell of Spartanburg SC, and Terry Powell (Angi) of Roebuck, SC; five grandchildren, Tim Dodd (Tomomi Sakurai) of Alexandria VA, Lori Doyle (Patrick) of Arlington VA, Ryan Powell of Charleston SC, and Katie and Maggie Powell of Roebuck SC; two great-grandchildren and two more due in December; she was dearly loved by them all. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Ward Weiss of

Burnsville, NC.

In place of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Paul Methodist Church, Spartanburg SC, or H.A.L.T.E.R. of Spartanburg at Haltersc.org.

A memorial is planned for Sept. 25th at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Spartanburg, SC. The family will receive friends in the courtyard from 10:00 am until 11:00 am and the service will be in the church at 11:00 am. All guests are asked to please wear masks.

Submitted by Roberta McKinney