Jodie Powell

With deep sorrow, we announce the unexpected passing of Jodie M. Powell, age 40, of Wayne, on Thursday, December 19, 2024. Jodie spent most of her life in Wayne, with a few years in Philadelphia.

Jodie graduated from Wayne Hills High School in 2002, where she shined as a field hockey player and a proud member of the National Honor Society. Her high school friendships were lifelong treasures, and she remained close with many of her classmates through the years. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Montclair State University and later a master’s degree from The New School in New York City.

Jodie was an adventurous traveler, studied abroad in London and enjoyed extended visits to Brazil and Chile, where she embraced new cultures and experiences. While pursuing her education, she took an interest in unions. Jodie found immense joy in helping others and carried that passion into her career as a union representative with the American Federation of Teachers in the Philadelphia area. Her work with AFT brought her purpose and pride, and she always spoke fondly of those she served. Although health challenges and life led her to leave that role, Jodie faced her illness with a bright attitude, inspiring everyone around her with her resilience. Through these difficult times, she formed lasting adult friendships that became a source of strength and joy in her life. She also had beautiful friendships with her two cousins, Tom and Jess.

Jodie was a vibrant soul with a deep love for books, music, food, and her furry companions. She was an avid concertgoer, often seeing her favorite bands like The Red Hot Chili Peppers (her all-time favorite), The Bouncing Souls, The Offspring, and many others. Her love of music was deeply influenced by her brother Matthew, with whom she attended countless concerts over the years, creating cherished memories that fueled her passion for live performances. Some of her happiest teenage moments were sneaking into shows with her older sister, Jaye, creating unforgettable memories. Jodie was also a talented cook and baker, always eager to share her culinary creations. By her own admission, she was becoming a “cat lady,” doting on her beloved cats, Church, Kitty, and Roxy. Though she has now reunited with Church and Kitty, her treasured cat Roxy remains lovingly cared for by her mother.

Jodie’s warmth, kindness, and spirited nature will be deeply missed by her family and friends. She is survived by her devoted mother; Darcy Powell of Wayne, her two siblings; Jaye Barbanti (Amie) and Matthew Powell (Jess), her loving boyfriend; Michael Riter, her four loving aunts; Cheryl Monaco (Eric), Faith Moskal (Ted), Carol Newman (Steve) and Bobbi Kolment (Ron), as well as many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. She was predeceased by her grandmother, her Uncle George, and cousin Nicole.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider making a donation to your local animal shelter, or to the Cooper Foundation at Cooper University Hospital, where Jodie underwent her surgeries. Your generosity will honor her love for animals and her resilience during her health journey.