William D. Powell, Jr., 82, of Dawsonville died Monday October 11, 2010 at UniHealth of Lanier following a period of declining health. Born January 22, 1928 in Birmingham, Alabama to the late William Dewey and Leo Powell, he had lived in Dawson County for the past 16 years having moved from Atlanta. Mr. Powell attended public schools in the Birmingham area and Auburn University. He graduated from Birmingham-Southern College with a degree in Geology. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II and served in the Pacific area and in North China. Recalled to service during the Korean Conflict he received a meritorious commission. Remaining in the Reserves after active duty, he retired with the rank of Colonel. Colonel Powell retired from United States Steel Corporation with 30 years of service having worked in the Coal Mine Division and Fairfield Steel Works. Surviving are his wife, Betty Grogan Powell, Dawsonville; daughters and son in law, Terry L. Powell, Dillingham, AK, Susan P. and Randall Allen, Birmingham, AL; two grandchildren and a great grandson. Colonel Powell was interred in the Barrancas National Cemetery at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida. Condolences may be expressed at www.beardenfuneralhome.com. Bearden Funeral Home, Dawsonville, GA.