Shaeffer Alec Powell

Shaeffer Alec Powell, age 26, passed away peacefully in Madison, Tennessee. Born in Wichita, Kansas, Shaeffer made his home in Freeland, Michigan; Kansas City, Missouri; and finally, Madison, Tennessee. He graduated from Northwood University, earned two degrees, and was building a successful career as a Sales Representative for Smurfit WestRock. Shaeffer was a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, partner, and friend whose presence brought laughter, love, and joy to everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. If there is one thing those who loved Shaeffer will always remember, it is his ability to make people laugh. Not a day went by without his family sharing a story, repeating something funny he had said, or laughing about one of his latest adventures. As the middle of the "Bruise Brothers," Shaeffer was often the peacemaker. He had a special gift for easing tension, finding common ground, and bringing people back together. He reminded all of us not to take life too seriously. Shaeffer cherished being both a little brother and a big brother. He understood each role in a way only a middle child can. He was also, by his own proud admission, a mama's boy and always vying to be the favorite child. Shaeffer loved spending time with family and friends. Whether he was playing games, golfing, working on projects, fixing things, improving things, or simply spending time with the people he loved, he found joy in being present with others. He was excited about his future and had worked hard to build the life he wanted. On the day of his passing, our family learned that he had been offered a promotion and an opportunity to relocate back to Kansas City, where he would have worked alongside one of his closest friends. Friendship meant everything to Shaeffer. Ryan Hatchett of Kansas City had been one of his best friends since childhood. The two grew up inseparable and eventually fulfilled their childhood dream of becoming roommates. Shaeffer was honored to serve as Ryan's Best Man, a role he took immense pride in. Didar Ameen of Nashville was another of Shaeffer's closest friends and a true brother in every sense of the word. Together they shared years of conversations, games, laughter, and endless good-natured roasting. Just two nights before Shaeffer's passing, Didar, Shaeffer, and Corbin spent an evening together in Nashville. Didar's final words to him were, "I love you, brother, for life.” One of the greatest joys of Shaeffer's life was his relationship with Phoebe Holmes of Kansas City. He had found his person. Anyone who spent time with them could see how deeply they loved one another. Phoebe described knowing Shaeffer as a dream come true and often spoke about the way he inspired her to become a better person. He loved her fiercely and looked forward to building a future together. Shaeffer also had a remarkable way of embracing the people his loved ones brought into his life. Taylor became like a sister to him, and he showed up for her in countless ways, offering support, encouragement, laughter, and love simply because that was who he was. His cousin Chela was more like a sister than a cousin and shared great memories, adventures, and laughter. Growing up, Shaeffer thought of his younger cousin Ian as a little brother and enjoyed watching him succeed. Shaeffer's heart extended far beyond the people in his life. He had an extraordinary love for animals. His beloved dog, Zorro, was his constant companion and faithful best friend. Shaeffer lovingly referred to Zorro as his son, and the two were rarely apart. More recently, he had taken it upon himself to care for a growing "herd" of stray cats in his neighborhood, joking that he intended to become their overlord. Zorro was with Shaeffer when he passed and he remained by his side. Corbin will now care for Zorro, ensuring he is loved, spoiled, and given the life Shaeffer planned for him to have. Shaeffer often talked about becoming a "funcle," and his brothers promised he always will be. The children who come after him will know Uncle Shaeffer through stories, photographs, laughter, and memories. Shaeffer was funny, compassionate, loyal, protective, thoughtful, and full of life. He had a smile that could light up a room and a personality that left an impression wherever he went. His absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but the laughter, love, and memories he gave us will remain forever. Those who knew Shaeffer know he would not want us to be consumed by sadness. He would want us laughing, sharing stories, teasing one another, and lifting each other up, just as he always did. Shaeffer is survived by his mother, Laura Powell of Whitestown, Indiana; his father, Corey Powell of Saginaw, Michigan; his brothers, Corbin Powell of Roanoke, Virginia, and Jensen Powell of Houston, Texas; his grandparents, Paul and Marcia Miller, Danielle Miller, and Floyd and Shirley Powell of Wichita, Kansas; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, friends, and coworkers whose lives were brighter because he was part of them. Life was beautiful having you in it, and it will never be the same without you. Rest in peace, beautiful boy, until we see each other again. A celebration of life video will be forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you please consider contributing to your local Humane Society or animal shelter in Shaeffer's memory. "I hope death feels like being picked up from the backseat and carried to my bed half asleep, where tucked in and eyes closed, I can hear those who love me talking through a cracked door." - Christian Watson

Shaeffer Alec Powell

February 16, 2000 - August 7, 2026