Mr. Ishmael Sylvester Powell was born November 2, 1945, to the late Mr. Richard Powell and Ms. Claris Smith in Saint Elizabeth, Jamaica.

Ishmael took the self-journey from his hometown of Saint Elizabeth, Jamaica in the early 1970s to the United States of America seeking a better opportunity in life for himself and his family. He was affectionately called “Carl” amongst his friends. He resided in Lakeland, Florida for the past 40 years, and during that time he dedicated over 20 years of service and retired from the Polk County School Board in 2015.

Ishmael enjoyed spending quality time with his family, and friends, deep sea fishing, and playing dominoes with his closest friends. Gardening was his therapy and his happy place. Everyone knows of his backyard also known as “Little Jamaica”. He has harvested food such as pumpkin, callaloo, ackee, pear, mangoes, sorrel, sugar cane, thyme, and more.

Ishmael was preceded in death by his parents Richard Powell and Claris Stewart, brothers: Clarence Powell, Lester Powell, and Aston Powell; sisters: Princess Powell, Lillian Rowe, and Addy Powell.

Ishmael wore many titles as a deeply beloved father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. His passing was sudden, but he left a legacy of love and cherished memories.

Ishmael leaves behind to treasure his memories: Son Antonio Powell (Shantia); grandson Antonio Powell, Jr., granddaughter Aubrelle Powell, and a huge host of nieces and nephews.

As we mourn the loss of our Uncle Ishmael, we must celebrate all the beautiful moments we shared with him during his time with us. His kindness and loving nature will be forever etched within our hearts. Uncle Ishmael’s spirit will live throughout the memories we hold near and dear to us, and we should find comfort in the knowledge that we will be reunited with him once again one day.