Jerry Donald Powers

Jerry Donald Powers, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and devoted man of faith, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on May 20, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on April 17, 1944, in Erwin, Tennessee, he was the cherished son of Clyde and Leah Powers.
After graduating from Unicoi County High School, Jerry answered the call to ministry, dedicating his life to serving God and his community. For more than 50 years, he faithfully served in ministry throughout Tennessee and North Carolina, including the last 20 years as pastor of Mustard Seed Worship Center in Jonesborough, Tennessee.
In addition to his ministry, Jerry worked for many years as a bus driver and cafeteria worker for Washington County, Tennessee Schools. During the summers, many knew him through his Telford Lawnmower Repair Shop, where he enjoyed repairing small engines as both a hobby and a service to others.
Beyond the pulpit, his greatest joy was his family. He was a loving husband to his late wife of 48 years, Brenda Gail (Hughes) Powers, and later shared six years of marriage with his wife, Alma (Campbell) Powers. He was the proud father of Dr. Cynthia Michelle (Powers) Sullivan and son-in-law Tim Sullivan. More than anything, he treasured being “Pops” to his grandchildren, Ethan Sullivan, Molly Sullivan, and Cadence Campbell.
He also shared a special lifelong bond with his sister-in-law, Cindy (Hughes) Hill.
Jerry leaves behind a rich legacy of faith, love, and service. While he will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing he has heard the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23 KJV).
He is survived by his wife, Alma (Campbell) Powers; daughter, Dr. Cynthia Michelle (Powers) Sullivan and husband, Tim Sullivan; grandchildren, Ethan Sullivan, Molly Sullivan, and Cadence Campbell; and sister-in-law, Cindy (Hughes) Hill.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Leah Powers, and his wife, Brenda Gail (Hughes) Powers.
A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Mustard Seed Worship Center, 897 Mayberry Road, Jonesborough, TN 37659, with Parker Street officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation prior to the service from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at the church. Interment will immediately follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Mustard Seed Worship Center Building Fund in honor of Jerry’s lifelong commitment to the church and the people he faithfully served.