CNN reported that Alma Johnson Powell, the wife of the late Secretary of State Colin Powell, has died at the age of 86.
Her death was confirmed by the family's spokesperson, Peggy Cifrino, marking the end of a life dedicated to service and family.
Alma Powell's passing marks the loss of a significant figure who supported her husband through a remarkable and historic career. Alma and Colin Powell's marriage spanned nearly 60 years, beginning after they met on a blind date in 1961, shortly before Colin Powell was deployed to Vietnam. This deployment marked the start of a defining period in Alma's life as she navigated the challenges of being a newlywed and a military spouse.
Alma Powell was born in Birmingham, Alabama, on October 27, 1937. She studied speech pathology and audiology at Emerson College in Boston. After her education, she worked as a staff audiologist for the Boston Guild for the Hard of Hearing, where she assisted veterans and taught the deaf to read lips.
Throughout her life, Alma held various influential roles. She served as chair emeritus of America’s Promise Alliance, an organization founded by her husband to support at-risk youths. She was also a board of trustees member for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and served on President Barack Obama’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities from 2010 to 2012.
Alma's influence extended beyond her professional roles. She was a grounding force for her family, as noted in a statement from her children, Michael, Linda, and Annemarie. They described her as an exemplary role model who provided security and stability during their childhoods, which were marked by constant relocations due to their father's military career.
In what was believed to be his final interview, Colin Powell expressed profound admiration for his wife. He credited her with significantly influencing his life and decisions, including his choice not to run for president in 1996 due to safety concerns. This decision was heavily influenced by Alma's concerns about the dangers he might face as a Black man running for the highest office in the country. Alma Powell once said:
Part of who I am is because of my career as a military wife. I think of the military as family. So, like many military spouses today, you’re essentially a single parent. Your job was to make a home wherever you were. Home was where we were as a family, wherever that was.
Alma often reflected on her experiences as a military spouse, describing it as a defining aspect of her identity. She emphasized the challenges of maintaining a stable home environment while her husband was frequently away due to his military duties. Her ability to provide a sense of home and stability was a testament to her resilience and dedication.
Her children highlighted these qualities in their statement, acknowledging her intelligence, grace, and unwavering support for her family and country. They expressed deep sorrow over her passing but took comfort in the knowledge that she lived a fulfilling life and is now reunited with her husband. Statement from her children, Michael, Linda, and Annemarie:
(Powell) was the grounding force of our family... She was an exemplary role model for us and for the world. She served our country, alongside our father, with intelligence and grace. We will miss her terribly but take comfort in the fact that she had a life so well-lived and is reunited with our father.
Alma's legacy continued through her work and the organizations she supported. At the time of her passing, she held the title of chair emeritus at America’s Promise Alliance, where she contributed to efforts to support at-risk youths. Her involvement in the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and her advisory roles for Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the Red Cross of the military district of Washington further exemplify her commitment to service.
Her impact on those around her, especially her family, remains profound. Alma is survived by her three children, a niece, two nephews, and numerous extended family members and friends. They all cherish the memories and lessons imparted by a woman who lived a life marked by dedication, service, and love.
Alma Powell's death at the age of 86 marks the end of a life dedicated to supporting her family and serving her country. Her marriage to Colin Powell lasted nearly 60 years, during which she navigated the challenges of being a military spouse with resilience and grace. Alma's professional and personal contributions left a lasting impact on many, from her work with at-risk youths to her advisory roles in key organizations. Her legacy is carried on by her children and extended family, who remember her as an exemplary role model and a grounding force. Although she will be deeply missed, Alma Powell's life and achievements continue to inspire.
