Austin Powell also known as "Tata" and "Selassie" to many, was born on August 30, 1944; he is the fourth son of Samuel Powell and Alfreda Davis Powell in the the parish of St. Mary (Harmony Hall).

Austin attended Highgate Elementary school, then later worked as a mason in St. Mary, Jamaica. In 1962, he met Merle Taylor and their union produced five children: Pathiel Powell (Dion), Courtney Powell (Dave), Esther Powell, Janice Powell, and Ann-Marie Powell (Michelle).

Austin migrated to the United States of America in 1971 to make a better life for his family in Jamaica. While living in America, he met and married his late wife, Jessie Lee Powell in 1979, and built a comfortable life together in Vineland, New Jersey.  Austin being the dedicated father he was, wanted a better life for his children, and so he took the necessary measures to get them to America in 1985. Austin worked at Venice Maids, presently Aunt Kitty's, for over 40 years, as very dedicated, hardworking employee.

Austin enjoyed working out and body building. Due to his love and dedication to the sport he was able to win numerous competitive awards as a body builder. In his spare time he enjoyed watching basketball and cricket. It was always his dream to build a home in Jamaica where one day he would be able to retire in comfort and enjoy his golden years.  In 2009, Austin was able to retired and returned to his homeland of Jamaica in 2014, where he resided in his newly completed dream home.

In 2022, Austin fell ill and his children had him returned to America, where they provided the best of care for him. During his final months, Austin was surrounded by his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren to celebrate the holidays. Sadly, Austin was called home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at 5 am.

Austin leaves behind to cherish his five children, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Siblings Wihel Powell, Delroy Powell, Beverly Powell, Osbourn Powell, Lenford Powell and Lenval Powell. Host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

We know your loss is deep, and your sorrow is great, but we want you to know that we share in your sorrow, but more importantly, we recognize that this loss is Heaven's gain. Whereas, we believe the words of Jesus in John 14:1-13 that encourages us to "Let not your heart be trouble: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself: that where I am, there ye may be also."