Johnny Best Powell

Johnny Best Powell “Boomer”, affectionately known as “Boomer,” passed away on October 6, 2025, in his hometown of Clinton, North Carolina, where he was born on November 9, 1942. He was the son of Alene Darden and Gordon Best Powell. Johnny was 82 years old.

Eager to join the U.S. Military, Johnny enlisted in December 1960. After graduating from Clinton High School in 1961, he began his career in the United States Air Force. His assignments took him to stations in Florida, Turkey, Georgia, Massachusetts, California, and his base of preference, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, North Carolina. As an In-Flight Refueling Technician (Boom Operator), Johnny traveled the world, providing vital air refueling support for missions across the globe. He documented his journeys through his love of photography, capturing moments of midair refueling and the places he visited. Assignments to Vietnam, Spain, Italy, and Germany gave him numerous opportunities to explore other countries and cultures through his camera lens.

A veteran of the Vietnam War, Desert Shield, and Desert Storm, Johnny’s distinguished service earned him the Vietnam Service Medal, the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Force Commendation Medal. He retired in December 1981. Not one to stay away from service for long, Johnny returned to the Air Force in 1986 as a member of the United States Air Force Reserves. He was called back to active duty in 1990 for Desert Shield and Desert Storm and served in Iraq. He continued to serve as an In-Flight Refueling Technician and Instructor until June 1992, proudly sharing his expertise and mentoring younger servicemen and women. He retired as a Senior Master Sergeant.

Johnny was a devoted member of the IFR (In-Flight Refueling Association). He enjoyed traveling across the United States to reunite with his fellow servicemen at reunions and golf outings, which also allowed him to stay current with the ongoing changes in IFR systems. These gatherings kept him connected to the brotherhood he valued so deeply. He loved sharing these experiences with family, and the road trips became cherished memories during his retirement.

Raised as a Southern Baptist, Johnny dedicated his life to his faith after retiring from the Air Force. He completed his Associate of Ministry degree in May 2003 and became an active member of New Life Baptist Church. Johnny faithfully shared his testimony, enjoyed mowing the church lawn, and video recording the services. He found great purpose in serving his church and community, and his faith guided every aspect of his life.

Beyond his service and faith, Johnny’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Daly Powell; his children Kimberly Swisher (Mark), James G. Powell, and Crystal Oakley (Bryan); his grandchildren James C. Powell, Grace Swisher, and Jack Swisher; and his great-granddaughter, Annaliese Powell. He is also survived by his brother, Paul Powell. He was preceded in death by his brother, Kirby D. Powell.

Johnny loved being active, playing softball with fellow boom operators, water skiing, riding motorcycles, and golfing. He was a supportive grandfather, traveling to attend ballet recitals and Nutcracker productions, giving waterski lessons, and cheering at hockey games. These moments with family brought him tremendous joy and pride.

Johnny will be remembered for his dedication, strength, unwavering faith, and love for his family. His legacy of service and devotion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Funeral Services will be held Monday, October 13 at 11:00 AM at New Life Baptist Church with Rev. David Page officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery of Goldsboro. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the services on Monday at the church beginning at 10:00 AM and other times at the home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to New Life Baptist Church. 2605 Southeast Blvd., Clinton, NC. 28328.

Royal-Hall is honored to serve the Powell family.