March 8, 1915 – December 18, 2013

by Patricia McCarthy, St. Bartholomew’s Church, Pittsboro, 2015

Evelyn Anne O’Brien married Woodson Lea Powell III in 1934. In 1937/38 they returned to his hometown of Pittsboro, North Carolina. At this time Evelyn became an Episcopalian, joining St. Bartholomew’s as one of the youngest members.

Shortly afterwards she became a member of the Woman’s Auxiliary Branch (the forerunner to Episcopal Church Women.) Meetings were held during the day as most of the women did not work out of their homes. Generally the attendance was about twelve. Through the years Evelyn served as President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Besides the local meetings at St. Bartholomew’s, there were Convocational and Diocesan gatherings. The branch supported all the activities of the church, even a bazaar to raise money for two to three years. She indicated there wouldn’t have been a church except for the women.

Later when women were allowed positions on the Vestry Evelyn served multiple times. During her 80s she became a member of a Search Committee seeking a new priest for St. Bartholomew’s. At that time she was a representative for the older members of the church. She found the process of writing a profile, reviewing applications and later interviewing candidates to be a time of spiritual growth.

Besides her church activities Evelyn continued to raise her three children. Her son Woodson Lea Powell IV reported it was understood that every Sunday without fail the family was expected to attend and participate in the church service. Her daughter, Anne, was the first female acolyte at St. Bartholomew’s. It is also noteworthy that her son entered seminary and eventually the priesthood.

Through the years Evelyn has seen people become angry with the church and leave. She, however, stayed on, stating, “It is my church and I’m not leaving.” For a number of years Evelyn was the oldest member of St. Bartholomew’s. Even when unable to attend church regularly because of decreased vision, hearing and mobility, she still enjoyed receiving the Eucharist as often as possible in the home of her son or daughter.

When asked about the Episcopal Church Women, Evelyn was glad to hear that it has been revived at St. Bartholomew’s. She sent her best wishes to the group. Her greatest contribution to her home church has been her continued support for more than 75 years.