Rosa Mae McKinnon Powell, daughter of the late Leola Bennett Mathis and Henry Mathis, was born in Albany, Georgia on September 16, 1937.

She received her early childhood and secondary education in the Dougherty County School System.  Throughout her school years, she demonstrated  remarkable potential and was actively involved in various student activities and events.

At an early age, Rosa began her Christian journey with the Lord.  She was a dedicated member of New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor B. T. Batten.  Over the years, she served faithfully as a Deaconess and an  Usher until her health declined.

Rosa was a devoted wife and mother with an everlasting love for her family.  She was blessed not only with children, but grandchildren and great grandchildren who were a source of joy and pride in her life.  The family enjoyed many happy moments together and truly delighted in the simple pleasures of life.  Rosa took great care in  providing unconditionally for her family.   For more than 20 years, she skillfully balanced her responsibilities as a homemaker with her employment as a mat cutter with Rich Enterprise She firmly believed in working hard for what you want and always being willing to do the right thing, even in tough circumstances.

Often described as a kind and good-hearted individual with a spirit of peace, Rosa had a servant's heart  and would go the extra mile to help those in need—never asking anything in return.  She was a friend you could count on, true to her word, and never knew a stranger.  Her life was truly one of purpose and meaning; she will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Rosa went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, September 9, 2021.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by seven siblings, Maddie McKinnon, Maude McKinnon, Maddel McKinnon, John Henry Mathis, Pinkey Mathis, Field Mahis, and Clarence Mathis.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by her beloved husband of 42 years, Eugene Powell, Jr.; her children, Virginia (Larry) Johnson, Myrtle (Larry) Powell, Cynthia Robinson, Carolyn Williams, Catherine Robinson, Foster Edgar, Calvin Robinson, and Curtis Robinson; siblings, Jean (Jessie) Johnson, HenriJo (Al) Dyson, Mary Mathis, Thelma Mathis, Harry (Equilla) Johnson, Neil (Joy) Mathis, Ellbert (Darlene) Mathis, Angelo Mathis, Willie C. Mathis, and Wilson Mathis; 24 grandchildren, 79 great grandchildren and 15 great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and special friends.