It is with very heavy hearts and great sadness, we acknowledge the life and death of Mary Jo Dinneen Powers. At the youthful age of 83, she joined our dad, aka Papa, in heaven on August 24th.

Mom was affectionately known as Nanny to our children, and MJ to many others.  She leaves an incredible legacy. She loved hard, lived hard, and gave generously while sewing herself into her children, grandchildren, students, and countless others through the 12 Step programs.

There are three things that drove Nanny daily...her family, her involvement in Al-Anon, and her compassion for others.  She faithfully attended many events to support her children, grandchildren, past students, and many other social causes that needed her voice. It was shared with us that when you saw Mary Jo Powers at an organizing event, you knew shit would get done.  That speaks to her tenacity and ability to lead, which has been passed on for generations to come.

Mary Jo was all about equity and spent a lifetime trying to change our culture regarding racism, women's rights, and she LOVED her Democratic Party. She was a committed volunteer during many elections and attended countless events to make her voice heard.

As much as we are broken, we know her Higher Power has welcomed her home. Rest in peace mom. Have a dance with dad, a lunch with Char, laugh with Lowell, and stay out of trouble with Sherri.

You will be dearly missed.

Mary Jo was preceded in death by her loving husband of 61 years, Chuck E. Powers, her parents, Violet and Ray Dinneen, and many other friends. She is survived by her sister; Peg Beltrand and her children; Matt Powers (Laura), Mike Powers (Penny) and Meg Perron (Jim). Mary Jo had 9 grandchildren: Adam Powers (Summer), Zach Powers, Chad Powers, Brandon Powers, Dakota Perron (Linley), Breanna Perron, Clayton Perron, Abby Perron and Seth Perron.

The celebration of her life will be held at the Unitarian Church 4848 Turner St, Rockford, IL on Saturday, September 10th. Visitation from 12:00-2pm with service to follow from 2-3:00pm. Food will be available from 12-3:00.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: WomenSpace – MJP Scholarship 3333 Maria Linden Dr. Rockford, IL 61114

OR

Rockford Park District Foundation – Washington Park Community Center UKUU 401 S Main St. Rockford, IL 61101