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WINTER HAVEN — Winter Haven Commissioner James "J.P." Powell died at home Monday afternoon after a battle with cancer, according to family members. He was 65.
Powell, an Ohio native, was first elected to Seat 1 of the City Commission in September 2007. He served until January 2016 and was re-elected to Seat 5 in November 2017, according to a biography on the city's website. Powell was mayor from 2011 through 2013. His death came as a "shock" to both family and fellow officials. Mayor Brad Dantzler made a public announcement at the start of Monday's commission meeting.
"It's a huge loss for us and totally unexpected," Commissioner Brian Yates told The Ledger. "He seemed to be fighting his fight, getting better and on the road to recovery." Powell was recalled as a down-to-earth, personable commissioner by city employees who said he took the time to get to know staff on a personal level, city spokeswoman Katrina Hill said. Many knew him by his "tremendous" laugh that would echo in the commissioner chambers.
Powell is survived by his wife, Kim, his son, Travis and "daughter" in-law Megan.
Visitation will be held May 5 at Ott-Laughlin Funeral Home, 645 W. Central Ave. in Winter Haven. Hours have yet to be announced. A funeral service is scheduled for 2 p.m. May 6 at First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven, 637 6th St. NW.
Winter Haven will hold a special election in November to fill Powell's seat, alongside its regularly scheduled elections. The winner of the special election will serve the remainder of Powell's term through 2025, Hill said.
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