John Stephen Powell

John Stephen Powell, the true dog whisperer, passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, May 19,2022 at the Vidant Inpatient Hospice House and now is with the Lord, his spirit once again healthy and happy.

'Steve' was born September 20,1953 in Roanoke, Virigina to late Walter and Hazel Vest Powell. He was the youngest of four children: Janice Powell Whitenack and Tommy Powell of Virigina, and Michael Powell (deceased) of Florida.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Runyon-Powell, and stepson, Alex Ormond, and his special fur babies (in his words: "four dogs, but two of them are cats"), Little Bit and Fred, and Oliver and Garland, who loved and miss their dad very much. He is also survived by a son/wife- Stephen Ciriacruz/Shawna, a daughter-Melissa Ciriacruz, all of Florida, and nine grandchildren.

Steve loved animals with all his heart (his own and his neighbor's). He is preceded in death by his two faithful companions, Lucy and Lizzie, whom we know were waiting with wagging tails and yelps of happiness for him at Heaven's gate.

It must be mentioned that he was an avid lifelong Minnesota Vikings fan, and he loved cheering them on every season and dreamed of one day visiting their new stadium - he's now got front row seats to every game! He loved mowing the yard and spending time talking to the dog next door, making sure she got three small dog biscuits a day.

In his younger years, Steve loved playing the guitar in bands. His love for bands such as Chicago and Earth, Wind and Fire, brought him much happiness and peace in his final years as did his beautiful black 1973 Dodge Charger classic car that he treasured and passed on to his son.

No formal service will be held. In lieu of flowers, Steve would have loved for you to make a donation to the Lenoir County SPCA or any other group that helps animals.