Holly MatkinLewisville, TX – Lewisville Police Department (LPD) Assistant Chief Jay Powell died in the early-morning hours of Jan. 6 after suffering a cardiac event.
The 52-year-old assistant chief succumbed to an aortic dissection, according to his obituary.
“I am devastated by this loss both professionally and personally,” LPD Chief Kevin Deaver said in a statement to WFAA. “Chief Powell and I grew up together in the Lewisville Police Department, spending much time together over the last 24 years. He was my friend, and I was honored to work alongside him.”
Assistant Chief Powell joined the LPD in 1994 and dedicated the next 29 years of his life to serving his community, the department said in a Facebook post on Jan. 6.
He was both the Distinguished Recruit and the Valedictorian of his basic police academy class, and received numerous honors and service awards during his nearly three decades of service, according to his obituary.
He was promoted to the rank of assistant chief in 2014, and oversaw the “operations side” of the agency while working in that capacity, the LPD said.
“Chief Powell never met a stranger and was always professional, and built community wherever he went,” Lewisville Mayor TJ Gilmore said in a statement to WFAA. “He loved his community, his family… Our City mourns his passing.”
Gilmore ordered flags be lowered to half-staff in Assistant Chief Powell’s honor.
“He had a servant’s heart and was a man of character and integrity in every aspect of his life,” his obituary read. “Time and time again his actions proved that he would gladly, bravely, and without hesitation come to the aid of any friend, neighbor, family member, or stranger in need.”
Assistant Chief Powell leaves behind his wife of nearly 27 years, Rhonda, as well as his parents, Pat and Becky.
He was laid to rest on Jan. 13.
Lewisville Assistant Chief Police Officer Jay Powell, passed away early this morning (January 6) from a cardiac event.
Funeral arrangements are pending. More information will be posted on City of Lewisville website. https://t.co/gcz12V8kn7 pic.twitter.com/33snJ3mcm9
— @LewisvillePD (@LewisvillePD) January 6, 2023
The final goodbye to Lewisville PD's assistant chief Jay Powell. pic.twitter.com/I7WbkzgpfR
— Photojournalist Michael Beard (@MichaelBeardWX) January 13, 2023
Mindy and I are praying for the Powell family and Lewisville police department after the loss of Assistant Chief Jay Powell. He will be remembered for his dedication and service to his community. pic.twitter.com/ckt91DWHvb
— Rep. Ben Bumgarner (@Bumgarner4HD63) January 6, 2023
On behalf of Assistant Chief Powells’ family and the Lewisville Police Department, the funeral service will be held Friday, Jan. 13, 2:30 p.m., at Cross Timbers Church, 1119 US 377, in Argyle, Texas.
The service is open to the public. There will be no graveside service. pic.twitter.com/iNqA2FfTSG
— @LewisvillePD (@LewisvillePD) January 9, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Lewisville Police Department Assistant Chief Jay Powell, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
