Roberta “Bobbie” Powell

Bobbie was born in Kingsford on Jan. 10, 1929. She was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Anna Hanson; sisters and brothers, Sheila Hanson, Audrey Richards, Iris Bates, Wallace Hanson, Lois Ericksen, Marie LaJeunesse, Vernon Hanson, and Alton Hanson. She was the youngest of 10 children (one passed at birth).

In addition to her husband, Gordon, she is survived by her children from her previous marriage to Dr. George R. St. Pierre: Anne-Renee, Jeanne, John, and Tom. She is also survived by Gordon’s children: David, Erik, Craig, and Norman.

Bobbie discovered quite by accident at the age of 47 her talent in art which she quickly channeled into communicating her love of humanity. Her major art contribution is nine life size starving refugees called “Inhumanity.” This collection traveled throughout the United States and generated contributions to combat world hunger.

The Columbus Museum of Art has two sculptures of Bobbie’s work installed at the museum’s Elijah Pierce exhibit. She also was asked to have one of the first exhibits at The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center in Worthington (MAC). Two of her pieces remain on display on the center’s front lawn. Her iconic mermaid sculpture was recently refurbished and restored to its original glory and named “Pearl” by the Worthington community. Bobbie was appreciative that her work will live on, but she will be equally remembered for her kind and effervescent personality.

Bobbie left many written notes and thoughts to those she loved with the following capturing her journey through life:

“I love you all so much, and I wish all of you future lives as truly great as mine has been.”

All who loved Bobbie or her art are welcome to join a celebration of life at the Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center, 777 Evening St., Worthington, OH 43085, Sunday June 4 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.