Birth date: Nov 29, 1942 Death date: Dec 23, 2025
Vera Jo Ann was born November 29, 1942, to the late James and Willamay Kennedy in San Diego, the oldest of four children. She attended Logan Elementary, Gompers Junior HS, Lincoln HS and San Diego State University. Vera began her Read Obituary
Mrs Powell was a very special lady. I will always remember her kindness, energy, laugh and her beautiful smile. She had a gift of just making you feel happy. Rest in peace Mrs Powell and thank you for giving so much of yourself to help others.
Dearest Mrs. Powell. I am so sad to hear of your passing. What an amazing teacher and inspiration to so many young dancers! I loved you classes at Crawford high school where I felt like I fit in! Although I did not go on to be a professional dancer, I did serve as an assistant ballroom dancing teacher at SDSU, and dance has been part of my life for over 50 years! Thank you for the gift of dance! You were a kind, loving and encouraging presence in so many lives. May you rest in peace, except when you are dancing across the heavens!
Wendy Williams
In memory of my dear friend, mentor, and “Second” mom, on any given day.
In August1969, I met Vera Powell; she is my assigned P.E. instructor at
Morse High. I bonded with her immediately because of her humor, high energy, and guidance that she gave to all her students. Vera supported me not only in P.E. but in other classes. I found myself visiting her office to ask questions about study techniques and staying on tasks. She provided suggestions on how to take notes in class, studying in quite place, and that reading would enhance my vocabulary. There is no need to remind anyone that Vera was an avid reader.
From the moment I entered Vera’s class, she would let you know that she was in charge! And always expect the unexpected in her class. Like the time we played “Dodgeball” instead of baseball. As unpredictable as class could be, a couple of times, we would make up a dance move on the spot after clearing home base! Vera loved to dance and she incorporated that love into her P.E. classes. As I reminisce about P.E., I am amazed how Vera could run, jump, twirl, and still be pregnant!
A story I fondly remember is Vera offering to write to me after I informed her that my family was moving to Oxnard, CA in October1969. With thoughts of our previous conversations, Vera understood how I respected my elders and knowing their history and experiences could teach and influence my thinking and educational growth. Vera writing to me provided emotional support and encouraged me to write; it was like therapy. She would say, “Writing is a good skill to learn.” Her words were always so intentional.
This story concludes with me connecting with Vera in yet another P.E. class 5 years later at Southwestern College (1974). Our paths would continue to link when Vera began teaching in the Reading department at SWC. I am all grown up now, and having conversations with Vera allowed me to discuss my life experiences. Vera would say, “You’ve come a long way, and I’m proud of you.” When an elder you respect recognizes your potential, you cannot help but thrive!
My final conversation with Vera was on her birthday, November 29th. She shared a birthday with my mother. Her voice was calm and deliberate. Just like the first day I met Vera, she was still providing me with thoughtful and supportive advice. This time, Vera’s words supported me in caring for a fragile mother. Vera’s final words to me were, “Don’t forget to take care of yourself.”
I thank you, love you, and will miss you until!
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Totally by accident, I find in my bookcase a 95-page red book titled, “Miz Vera’s Borrowed Wisdom.” Here are her words of wisdom that I leave you with.
“Dreams and wishes are the things that make life interesting.
They give color and texture to what can be.
And when we believe We Can…WE Do!”
-Vera Mooring
“I always try to remember that my life is a treasure
And I’m trying to spend it wisely
To that end I will not give up five minutes before the miracle.
Nor will I forget that a delay is not a denial.”
-Vera Mooring
Retirement Dinner
December,2015
Vera is acknowledging our long-standing connection since 1969, as a former student, administrave support staff, and friend."She joked that she just couldn't get rid of me!"
Much love to you, reaching up to the stars above!
Rose
We will all miss Vera! She was a dynamo who never failed to inspire others to fully live their lives. Back in the late 80’s, when I was a new teacher just learning the Reading lab system at Southwestern College, she gave me some practical advice that really helped.
She’s dancing with the angels now! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPLDMAswKf8
Oh Vera thank you for being such aa force of nature and all the lives you touched in such a positive mannyer at Southwestern College and all of the San Diego Community.
May your joyful spirit and soul bloom in Heavne's Garden. I know you are dancing up a storm up there! Sending Love and Hugs to the Heavens. People like you should never leave this physical world, but you continue to live in many of us through your legacy.
Thank you Vera for all that you have done for dance in San Diego. George
Willis, Founder, San Diego Dance Theater. And we shared the same birthday, November 29th.
Wow. She was awesome. As one of her PE Students at Crawford High she made a lasting impression on me. Even after graduating in 1974 I would often see her staying involved & connected in the SE San Diego community. I can remember clubbing at the Safeties or at a house party and would see her there with us dancing and enjoying herself. She was lovable, her smile shined, her love of dance and her infectious laugh will be missed. What a woman. RIP Vera Powell. ❤️
