James Bert Powell, age 87, of Woodstown, died March 17, 2017.

He was born in Erie, PA in 1930, son of the late T. Bert and Agnes Nelson Powell.

After graduation from Penn State University in 1952, he served two years in the U.S. Army. In 1953, during his service, he married his college sweetheart, Betty M. Seltzer, and after military service they both went back to the family farm in Erie until 1958. Employment with Del Monte in Swedesboro for more than a decade in the agriculture research and field departments, then led to a move to Woodstown. He later taught at Carelton School in Penns Grove for 20 years before retirement.

He was an active, dedicated member of Asbury United Methodist Church for nearly 60 years. He had a passion for gardening and enjoyed many community activities.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Louise Powell.

Survivors include his wife Betty, two sons, Tom and Ken(Mary), two granddaughters, Kelly and Kimberly, three grandsons, Ryan, Matt, and Luke, and one great granddaughter Adelyn.

Friends may attend a memorial service at 11 AM on Saturday, March 25th at Asbury United Methodist Church, 149 S. Main St., Woodstown, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Asbury United Methodist Church. Please visit www.htlayton.com to leave a note of condolence to the family. Arrangements are by the H.T. Layton Funeral Home & Cremation Service.