Linda Joyce Powell

It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the passing of Linda Joyce Jones-Powell, who departed this life on May 26, 2025, in Avon, Indiana, at the age of 64.

Born on August 16, 1960, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Linda was the beloved daughter of the late Jewel Simmons-Cutler and Earl L. Jones, and was lovingly raised by her stepfather, the late Rev. Joshua Cutler. Linda was united in marriage to William Allen Powell in May of 1986. To this union, Kiley and Kendall were born. Linda’s spirit was as vibrant as her smile—one that could brighten an entire room.

She was a trailblazer and a beauty, becoming the first Black Ms. Junior Achievement in Indiana. Her grace and poise took her to the skies as a flight attendant for Delta Airlines, a career she embraced from June 1, 1983, until the pandemic of 2020. Linda's elegance and radiance were so admired that Delta selected her as the face of the company in a full-page ad in Essence magazine.

Linda also held a deep and whimsical love for her dolls—Yogi, Mikey, and Francesca—who, as she wished, are at rest with her forever. She found joy in cooking, shopping, and lighting up every room with laughter and life. She was the heartbeat of every celebration, the warmest presence in any gathering.

Linda had many loves in her life—none greater than her family. She is survived by her devoted children, Kiley Elyse Powell and Kendall Allen Powell; her treasured grandchildren, Kelani Dior Powell, Wesley Allen Powell, and Kyrie Amiya Richardson; and her cherished sister, Elaine Burden.

We are deeply grateful for the love, support, and kindness extended to our family during this difficult time.

As one of her favorite songs so beautifully puts it:

“I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance Dance, I hope you dance” — Lee Ann Womack

Linda Joyce Jones-Powell danced through life with grace, beauty, and joy. May her light continue to shine in all who knew and loved her.