VIDALIA — Funeral services for Rhett Pollard Powell, 70, of Ferriday, who died Friday, May 24, 2019, at Dubuis Hospital in Alexandria, La.,will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday at the First Baptist Church of Vidalia with Brother Jase Ellis and Brother John Collard officiating. Burial will follow at Eva Church of God Cemetery under the direction of Young’s Funeral Home.

Visitation will be from noon until service time Tuesday.

Rhett was born Aug. 24, 1948, in Ferriday, the son of Wendell Powell and Odessa Morace Powell.

Former longtime Concordia Parish award-winning photo journalist Rhett Powell moved to his Heavenly Home peacefully at 10:45 a.m, Friday after a lengthy illness.

Rhett graduated from Swanee River Military School, attended Oral Roberts University and graduated form Atlanta Photography Institute. For nearly 50 years, Rhett served the citizens of Concordia Parish and Adams County with his photographic talent. He worked for The Natchez Democrat and the Concordia Sentinel, earning best photo awards at both papers. His press pass opened a world of opportunity to Rhett. He seemed to always be at the right place at the right time to get that perfect shot. He was adept at flowing with the many changes he experienced in the world of photography. Rhett had pictures published in major newspapers and magazines and loved covering LSU football and baseball games. He also was on the sidelines for a Super Bowl in New Orleans. Rhett won best photo awards in news and sports with both the Mississippi Press Association and Louisiana Press Association.

Rhett gave credit to God for his photographic ability. He would be first to say he was a born-again Child of God, and next a photographer! In his latter years, after his dear wife Francis’ death, Rhett spent hour upon hour, reading and studying the precious Word of God. And, he prayed without ceasing. During crucial times, he was known to fast for days. He will be missed but will be remembered as a lover of people and friend to all.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Francis Latham Powell and daughter Bonnie Blue Powell Matthews.

Survivors include grandson, Keith Matthews of Natchez; granddaughter, Elizabeth Matthews of Natchez; son-in-law Chris Matthews of Natchez; stepmother Darlene Powell of Ferriday; sisters, Wendolyn Powell Moon and husband, Toby, of East Texas;  and Rhonda Powell Lewis and husband Brian of Lake Concordia. Rhett is also survived by a nephew, two nieces and a host of cousins.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Homer Hewitt, Jim “Abe” Evansizer, Ralph Bendell and Rob “ Robbie” Brown .

To leave an online condolence for the family please visit www.youngsfh.com.