Obituaries

William J, Powers, Sr.

November 6, 1959 - April 14, 2026

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing from 10 to 11 AM on Tuesday, April 21st at the H.T. Layton Funeral Home, 102 Main Street Woodstown, NJ. Funeral services will begin at 11 AM and burial will follow the services in Sharptown Methodist Cemetery. Please visit htlaytonfh.com to leave a note of condolence to Bill’s family.

William J. Powers Sr. of Salem, NJ, passed away on Tuesday, April 14th, 2026, at the age of 66. Born in Salem, NJ, he was the son of late Jack C. and Evelyn Powers. William worked in the maintenance department at the Mantua Township School District. He was the Vice President of South Jersey RC Airplane Club. Bill enjoyed sitting at RC field flying his planes and chatting with his friends. He also enjoyed riding on his Harley, whether it was memorial rides or trips to Skyline Drive, being on the water and boating and most recently farming on his XBox.

Bill had two faithful followers in his last years, his golden retriever, Cooper and his Britney Spaniel, Sammy Girl. They were his constant companions, especially his Sammy Girl who loved to accompany him to the RC field. Bill also had a pesky, talkative parrot named Buttons.

Anyone who knew Bill knew him for his larger-than-life presence. While he could be difficult, his presence shaped the lives of his family in ways that cannot be overlooked. He was always the first person to tell you that you’re doing something wrong but the first person to call to fix everything and anything. His knowledge of life and how to learn things the hard way made him someone everyone would turn to for advice or a story. Bill always told the best stories, especially while playing UNO with his family, which he would tell you he hated but deep down he loved when his family was together. His life serves as a reminder of the complexities of family, the impact we have on one another, and the enduring nature of connection, even when it is imperfect.

William is survived by his wife, Sherry Powers; two sons, William. J Powers Jr. and Jack E. Powers; and six grandchildren, who carry forward not only memories of him, but also lessons—both spoken and unspoken—that will remain with them. He was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Evelyn Powers, and his sister, June.