David Powell
EDITOR’S NOTE: A church community is created when people gather together for the love of God. At the same time, Saint Philip’s is comprised of many people who represent different ages, life experiences, and world views.
The “In conversation…” series is one attempt to create possibilities for connection between the different people in our community. As varied as we all are, there are also similarities and mutual interests waiting to be discovered. And there is one thing we all share: a desire to know God and be in relationship with him.
This week’s conversation is with deacon-in-training David Powell.
How long have you lived in Tucson?
Since March of 1950. Before that my family lived in Chicago. Doctors diagnosed me with asthma when I was fourteen months old and told my parents I would die if the family stayed in Chicago. So they brought me out to Tucson on a train and I outgrew the asthma. Back in 1950, Tucson was only 49,000 people big.
Were you raised in a faith tradition?
I was raised in the Baptist church.
How did you find your way to the Episcopal church?
My wife introduced me to the Episcopal church when we first met in 2010. She invited me to accompany her to a Sunday worship service at Saint Philip’s. I fell in love with the liturgy immediately. To have communion offered every Sunday (instead of once a month as is the practice in the Baptist church) was an unexpected blessing. And I found my heart and soul in the creeds.
When did you decide to become a deacon?
I started the process in 2018 but had to withdraw because of health issues. Luckily, the medication I was prescribed helped and after three years with no medical issues, I wrote Bishop Reddall and asked to resume my studies. The Bishop agreed and Holy Orders are scheduled for January, 2025.
What did you do professionally before you retired in 2015?
I was self-employed. My father and I owned and operated a distribution business selling roof coatings, asphalt sealers, and janitorial supplies to schools, municipal governments, and Indian tribes. We did that together for 20 years and after he died, I continued on my own.
I drove 1,000 miles a week for more than 20 years. Accident-free, I’m proud to add! I can drive anywhere in the state of Arizona without a map.
You’ve volunteered a lot since retirement. What has your focus of service been?
I have a genuine heart for seniors in any capacity. I love their history and their stories.
I’ve volunteered at Tucson Medical Center’s hospice, Pepi’s House, as well as at the VA. I was also chaplain to the veterans of the Battle of the Bulge. For four years I would have breakfast on Saturday mornings with the president and the vice-president of the Southern Arizona chapter. They took turns telling stories that always amazed me.
At all the different places where I volunteered, I also honored the veterans. At Pepi’s House alone I was fortunate to honor 217 veterans before COVID hit and everything had to change.
How do you honor veterans?
I present them with a plaque that is engraved with a paragraph that states appreciation for their service and dedication to the wellbeing and freedoms we enjoy. I do honorings when requested by a church or word of mouth.
What was your experience in the military?
When I graduated from Amphi High School in 1968, I didn’t want to join the military. But I got drafted and my father (who was a veteran) said I was too cocky and that the military would straighten me out.
My first assignment was as a truck driver but I was quickly moved into a combat aviation unit for the one year tour I did in Vietnam. I loved it! Unfortunately, the last seven months of my tour, I was stationed in the Mekong Delta and in 1969 the government sprayed more Agent Orange than at any other time. That left me 100% disabled; I've had a port in my chest since 1973 for infusion treatments every 4 weeks.
For years, friends and family have said I should sue the government. But the VA has kept me alive for 50 years and I couldn’t sue the people responsible for that. I thanked God they helped keep me alive.
How would you describe your initial impression of Saint Philip’s?
Very inviting. The sanctuary and the grounds are pleasing to the eye. When you walk in the church and see the high ceilings and stained glass you know you’re in a house of worship—a holy place.
What’s something that you’re proud of?
My second marriage. Margaret and I have been married for 12 years now; we both love the Lord and serve in our churches and community. I’m grateful that I’m happy.
What’s one of your super powers?
I have the gift of empathy and compassion. Military and ex--military men are supposed to be tough and hard and proud. I’ve learned to shed tears and I know it’s because I have a heart. And God has given me the gift to consider others before myself.
Who is your favorite theologian?
N.T. Wright. I learned a lot about St Paul from his book, “Paul.”
What do you like to do for fun?
I own a hardtop convertible Z3 roadster that I love to drive at 5:30 in the morning with the top down. I visit any place where planes take off and land, and attend three or four aviation shows every year. I love being in that atmosphere.
Missed an interview? All previous interviews can be found on Saint Philip’s website under the “About Us” tab. Click here to visit that page.