George Erling Powell

George Erling Powell, long-time resident of Los Lunas, NM, passed away on April 20, 2026, at the age of 75. George was born December 27, 1950, in Havre, Montana, to LeeRoy and Laura Powell. He grew up in both Montana and Belen NM, alongside his three siblings. George married Jo Anne McDaniel of Peralta NM and together they welcomed one daughter, Dianna J. Powell of Albuquerque. A graduate of Belen High School, George went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from New Mexico State University. Throughout high school, he worked at Jim’s Garage and Service Station. During his college years in Las Cruces, he held several jobs, including at The Paper Mill office supply store, Luby’s Cafeteria, ushering at special events at the Pan Am Center, and driving for Whitfield Bus Lines. While at Whitfield, George won a national school bus driving contest, an early sign of the skill and passion that would define his career. After graduating from NMSU, George began driving for Greyhound Bus Lines, where he continued for more than four decades. He retired in 2023 after approximately 45 years of dedicated service. Over the course of his career, he received numerous awards recognizing his exceptional record of safe driving, and educated new drivers as a driver trainer. George loved music, especially western music, and enjoyed playing guitar, singing, and attending concerts. While western artists were his favorite, he also had a special fondness for Neil Diamond. He enjoyed going to the movies, watching TV, and spending time with the many friends he made throughout his life. George was preceded in death by his parents LeeRoy and Laura Powell. He is survived by his sister Charlene Moore and her husband Mark, his brothers Victor L. Powell and his wife Sharon, and Ernest A. Powell as well as nieces: Rachel Chisholm, and Hanna Salazar and nephew: Andrew Powell, and great-nieces: Abigal, Dakota, and Betty Salazar, and great-nephews: Luke and Sam Chisholm. A memorial service will be held on June 14 2026. Viewing will be at 2pm and a Celebration of Life will follow at 3pm at Romero Funeral Home Chapel located at 609 N. Main St., Belen, NM 87002 All friends, family, and neighbors are welcome to attend.

George Erling Powell

December 27, 1950 - April 20, 2026