Martha Powell

Martha Elizabeth Powell, age 84 of Riley, passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan.

She was born on September 23, 1941, in Manhattan, the daughter of Harold Alvin and Grace Irene (Zeller) Goff. Martha grew up on the family dairy farm east of Keats, Kansas. She attended Keats Grade School through the 8th grade and then attended Manhattan High School, graduating in 1959. During this time, she was very active in the local 4-H club and at the county level. She enjoyed showing her many dairy cattle and various other projects. It was during this early time that Martha learned the virtues of hard work and living a humble life.

On June 12, 1960, Martha married her high school sweetheart Gerald George Powell in Manhattan. He survives.

Martha spent her career as a school cook and bus driver for USD 378. She was well-known for her contributions to the local 4-H club, where she served as a leader and mentored many young people, especially her granddaughters. She enjoyed assisting them with their projects and became one of their greatest supporters, along with Jerry, at the various events they were involved in. She had a passion for baking and her famous cinnamon rolls and wedding cakes brought joy to countless occasions. A talented quilter and seamstress, Martha created beautiful wedding dresses and cheer uniforms, often without asking for payment.

In addition to her artistic talents, Martha had a love for music, playing the piano, guitar, accordion, and string bass. She enjoyed gardening and sharing her home-canned goods with friends and family. She built up quite a collection of pig keepsakes in her and Jerry's home and a collection of rocks in her flower gardens from down by the creek. Her warm spirit and generous heart will be deeply missed.

In addition to her husband, Gerald, Martha is survived by her three sons, Vaughn (Kerrie) Powell of Riley, Jeffrey Powell (Randy Erickson) of Manhattan and Bryan Powell of Riley; two grandchildren, Becky (Blaine) Stroble of Manhattan and Kristina Powell of Stillwater, Oklahoma; three step grandchildren, Tony (Grace) Epperson of Riley, Brandi Siebold-Stark (Rachel Stark) of Manhattan and BJ Wheeler, Jr. (Philip Jones) of Boston, Massachusetts.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, James (Mary) Goff and Howard (Cheryl) Goff and her daughter-in-law, Diana Powell.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, August 9, 2026, from 2:00 until 4:00 pm at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am, Monday, August 10, 2026, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating. Interment will follow at Riley Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Martha Powell Memorial Fund and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.