James Powell II, 64, of DeKalb, Illinois, passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at Northwestern Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb.

He was born on October 3, 1961, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of James Powell Sr. and Thelma (Appleton) Powell.

James was a devoted family man whose love for his family and strong work ethic drove his passions throughout his life.

James brought energy into every room he entered. He found joy in connecting with anyone he met, often turning quiet or saddened moments into bursts of laughter, smiles, and love through his unique personality.

He loved music and dancing, always inviting those around him to join him on the dance floor—especially cherishing those moments shared with his grandchildren.

James was also one of the hardest workers in the restaurant industry, a field he was passionate about and proudly served in for over 45 years.

James will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and coworkers alike.

He is survived by his sister, Jane Powell; brothers, Winslow Powell and Stanford Thompson; sons, James Powell III and Jeremy Powell; daughter, Jazmen Powell; and grandchildren: Elise, James IV, Jaylen, Syvanna, James A., Kaylah, Emmanuel, Elizabeth, Kaylah M., Trent, Jizell, Carter, Kendra, Kyla, Victoria, McKenzie, David, Averylynn, Ja’Varion, Ja’Zariah, Jayceon, and Ta’Riyah Powell, and Taylor Nasir’ Jones.

He is also survived by nephews Charles Houskins, Samuel Beatty II, Andre Powell, Lashaun Bailey, Mahadee Powell, Daniel Appleton, and Winslow Powell II; nieces Yara Banks (Arthemas), Theresa McCall (Shomari), Tina Alexander (Reginald), Nikita Beatty, MTeesha Houskins, Demetria Bailey, Chevon Powell, Katrice, Keisha, and Kandra Thompson; along with a host of great-nieces and great-nephews, loved cousins, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Donald Appleton and Samuel Beatty; sisters-in-love Cheryl Appleton and Sharon Williams; nephews Donald Appleton II and Elijah Beatty; great-nephew Jaden Blumenberg; grandniece Aaliyah Powell; and other loved and missed cousins and extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Powell Family in care of Anderson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 605, 2011 South Fourth Street, DeKalb, IL 60115.