A Legacy of Service Cemented in the Community’s Heart.
Background: Rev. Powell, a former United States Marine and founder of Truth for Youth, passed away, leaving an immeasurable legacy. Since its founding in 1993, his organization has influenced and supported more than 80,000 young people and their families through educational, cultural, and social programs. From tutoring and mentoring to famous community lock-ins and holiday giveaways, Truth for Youth became a crucial safe space for underserved children in Pensacola.
A Mayor’s Tribute
Mayor D.C. Reeves delivered heartfelt remarks at the ceremony, noting Powell’s unique combination of military discipline and compassion.
- “Rev. Powell was a man whose life was defined by unwavering commitment, first to his country as a proud former United States Marine and to the people of Pensacola,” Reeves said. “He was an advocate, a mentor, and a spiritual leader whose presence in this community was a source of strength and hope. His unique blend of military discipline and deep-seated compassion created an unstoppable force for good.”
The mayor highlighted Powell’s hands-on approach to community service: “He didn’t just talk about change, he rolled up his sleeves, dedicated his life to creating right here in the heart of our city.”
Reeves concluded with powerful words about the street dedication itself: “As I’ve said many times and will proudly say again, there is no city block in Pensacola better defined by the effort of one person than the one we stand on today.”
A Lifelong Inspiration
Former Pensacola Police Chief David Alexander shared personal memories spanning decades, recalling Powell as a teenager who was “very energetic, and you couldn’t be around him and sit still. He would motivate you to do something.”
Alexander painted a picture of a talented man who played multiple instruments, cut children’s hair, and always demonstrated what it meant to be a good citizen. He emphasized Powell’s selflessness: “He simply saw something that needed to be done, and he just did it.”
- In a touching tribute, Alexander shared: “Yesterday, my wife went to Sam’s and I asked her to get a big bag of lemons, and I went by Mr. Wings and bought this big, huge 32 ounce of Kool-Aid… if you knew John Powell, you know Kool-Aid was special because he had a mixture for Kool-Aid that he bragged about it.”
Alexander also recalled how Powell’s lock-ins required children to bring report cards, maintaining high standards while never turning anyone away.
The former chief summarized Powell’s guiding philosophy: “God’s first. My family and friends are second, and I’m third.”
- The street naming serves as a permanent reminder of Powell’s compassion, vision, and community spirit. Mayor Reeves said, “Every time we pass Rev. John Powell Honorary Way, let it remind us to live with the same dedication, discipline, and devotion he showed to our community’s children.”