FRANKLIN—Demetria Shanell Powell, died suddenly and tragically Aug. 20, 2007. She was born July 20, 1981 to Phillip “Bud” Powell and Teresa Willis.

“Shawnae” or “Shoonk” as she was affectionately called attended the public schools of the city, J.P. King, S.P. Morton culminating with graduation from Franklin High School.

Following in the family image, at an early age, she became a member of East End Church of God where she enjoyed serving in many capacities; founder and President of the Chain Breakers Youth Ministry, overseer of the youth choir and taught youth Sunday school.

She had a passing for singing. She was praise and worship leader, a former member of Greg Roberts and Soulful Celebration, which she was fondly known as Da Female Tenor. She was blessed with youthfulness but her wisdom reached far beyond her years. She was known as a loving person, with a special spiritual maturity and a radiating personality.

“Shoonk” attended Paul D. Camp Community College for two years where she served as president of the American History Club. Upon graduation, she continued her education at Old Dominion University, Norfolk, where she worked towards a Bachelor of Science degree in interdisciplinary studies, teacher prep program for elementary K-3.

During her tenure at ODU, she achieved academic excellence by remaining on the dean’s list every semester.

“Shoonk” was a full time student with part-time employment at the Virginia Opera House and expected to graduate in May 2008.

“Shawnae” ran her race with passion, vigor and a firm commitment to God.

Survivors include her loving mother, Teresa Powell; father, Phillip “Bud” Powell (Denean); two brothers including, Tavaris Powell (Sherry); two sisters; loving grandparents, Bishop and Mrs. Stephen D. Willis, Jean Marie Bryant; aunts and uncles, Deborah Willis, Angela Barnes (Ronald), Stephen D. Willis Jr. (Liz), Margaret Jordan (Alonzo) and Nellie Rogers (John); one great-aunt, Eva Butts; one niece, Asia M. Powell and one nephew, Jordan A. Powell; a loving fianc/e, Keith Adams of Baltimore, Md.; godfather, Elder Willie Riddick; and a host of

aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

A service honoring her life’s journey was held Aug. 25 at East End Church of God. Burial followed in Southview Cemetery.

Wm. M. Johnson & Sons Funeral Home Inc. was in charge of arrangements.

A memorial fund is set up in her name at BB&T, Franklin.