Obituary of Billy Powers

William Emerick Powers or “Billy” as he was affectionately known, was born on September 29, 1952, in Trenton, Michigan.  He was one of two sons born to the union of Frederick Powers and Lillian (Sexton) Powers.  He attended Ecorse High School in Ecorse, Michigan and although he didn’t graduate, he eventually obtained his high school diploma while enlisted in the United States Army.  He was stationed in Germany and was very proud to receive an honorable discharge.

On October 10, 1976, Billy married the love of his life, the former Nanette Miller and together the couple were blessed with two children: William and Amy.  He provided for his family by working several different jobs, such as home inspections, painting or being an E-coat operator for the Crown Group Inc., but eventually retired in 2010 after more than eight years as a diesel mechanic for Schneider National. He was extremely proud of his attendance at work, never missing a day or being late in his career.

Billy was raised in a Baptist home, and even though he wasn’t an active churchgoer, he remained spiritual with a true love for his Lord.  He was very outgoing, many times striking up conversations with strangers about faith and having a personal relationship with God.  An amazing husband, father, and grandfather, he put the needs of his loved ones first and set out to always put a smile on their faces.  He instilled his relationship in God with his children providing them with a strong foundation and good morals.

Billy loved and cherished his wife, Nanette, so much that he did everything and anything for her. He enjoyed the company of animals and people just the same, opening his home to strangers and most recently rescuing a wired hair chihuahua named Binx.  Even though Binx didn’t like other people he was always at William’s side.

Billy was an amazing guitar player.  He loved playing both his 12-string acoustic guitar and his 6-string Martenson electric guitar. He once wrote a song titled “Rock Me”, whose rights were purchased by the rock group Steppenwolf. 

William Emerick Powers, age 71 of Monroe passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday; January 19, 2024.  His passing was preceded by his parents: Frederick and Lillian Powers; his wife: Nanette Powers in May of 2018; and his brother: Frederick Powers.

To cherish his memory, he leaves his daughter: Amy Powers (Ryan Vince) of Monroe, Michigan and William (Reba) Powers of Adrian, Michigan; three granddaughters; Ava Powers, Zaelin Powers, and RaeLynn Russeau; and several nieces and nephews.

Friends may gather from 3:00pm until 6:00pm on Wednesday; January 24, 2024, at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe, 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185.  A Celebration of William’s Life will be at 6:00pm also at Merkle’s with Pastor Scott of Crossroads Community Church in Adrian, Michigan officiating.  A private burial with military honors will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.

Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.