Anthony T. Powderly II

Anthony Powderly, born July 15, 1939, in Rochester, NY, passed away on August 8, 2018, at Methodist Hospital with his wife and daughter at his side. Tony had been healthy until a recent combination of challenges that he could not overcome. He is survived by wife, Barbara Powderly; son, Daniel E. Powderly, wife, Kathleen and grandchild, Thomas Anthony of Ft. Worth; daughter, Laura Davis and husband, Andy of Houston; brother, Edward Powderly and wife Marilyn of Leesburg VA; sisters Eileen and Nora Powderly of Rochester NY; nephew, John Powderly and wife Pat of Marvin NC; nephew Tim Powderly and wife Sarah of Arlington VA; nephew Nick Charvella and wife Sonya of Rochester NY; and great nieces and nephews, Kate, Elizabeth, Evan, Ben, Simone and Nina.

Tony was predeceased in death by his parents, Frank F. Powderly Jr. and Kathleen Bergen of Rochester and brother, Frank F. Powderly, III of Phoenix AZ.

As a young man, Tony became owner of the Steamboat Inn restaurant Canandaigua, NY. He took an interest in local government and was elected to the Board of Supervisors of Ontario County. In serving on the Board, he sponsored and inveigled passage of legislation that enabled building of the first Community College in Finger Lakes.

He moved from Rochester to Houston in the late 1970’s. When asked why he moved to Texas, he would answer, “The blizzard of 1978!” The blizzard occurred after he had gone for a short visit with relatives on a Sunday afternoon and became snowed in for two weeks.

Tony was successful in a variety of business ventures. He attended University of St. Thomas. During this time, he served as adjunct professor at the University of Houston, teaching financial planning. He recently retired after 25 years from Advisors Financial Group as Vice President.

The oldest of five siblings, Tony became the patriarch after his parents’ death. He was close to his siblings and walked with Ed, Frank, Eileen and Nora through their challenges and celebrated their achievements and times of joy. He recognized his role as an encourager, protector and guide. He adored his two children, Dan and Laura. He was so very proud of their accomplishments and the compassionate people they are.

The light of his life was his grandson, Thomas. He loved him deeply and was so proud of the intelligent, talented and loving young man he is becoming.

The funeral service was held at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church, 6221 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77030 on Saturday, August 25 at 10:00 a.m., and internment in The Chapel of the Resurrection and Columbarium at Palmer Church. A reception followed the service in the Parish Hall.