Jamie Brown Powell

Jamie Christopher Brown Powell was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on February 1, 1979, to the late Avis “Bonnie” Slater Powell and the late Joseph Brown. Jamie attended Vare-Washington Elementary School and Furness High School in South Philadelphia. Jamie was born with a developmental disability, but his mother and father were determined to give him a life filled with love, happiness, and as many meaningful experiences as possible. His father, Joseph Brown, passed away in 1993, after which his mother, Avis, assumed full responsibility for Jamie’s care. Caring for Jaime brought her tremendous joy and purpose. Jamie’s older brother, Jeffrey Powell, helped his mother care for Jamie and was committed to making sure that he had the best quality of life possible. Avis and Jeffrey never allowed Jamie’s disability to prevent him from experiencing life. They were never ashamed of him and proudly took him on walks throughout the neighborhood, to events around the city, and wherever they could create happy memories together. Although Jamie was unable to speak, he had his own special way of communicating through sign language, facial expressions, and his reactions to the world around him. Those who knew him learned to understand his expressions and appreciate the unique way he communicated. Jamie even achieved a little bit of celebrity status during his time at Vare-Washington Elementary School. He appeared in Bruce Springsteen’s music video, “Streets of Philadelphia.” Jamie can be seen in the scene where Bruce Springsteen walks past a schoolyard and a group of children runs toward the gate to see him. Jamie is already standing at the gate, wearing a gray sweatshirt and dark gray pants. It was a special moment that became a wonderful part of Jamie’s story. Jamie’s loved music and would react to different types of music in his own special way. He also loved the water and enjoyed sitting in the pool at his local YMCA. One of Jamie’s favorite things to do was take walks in the park. He enjoyed having the freedom to walk at his own pace, explore his surroundings, and take in the environment around him. He preferred to have some space while walking and enjoyed the independence of being able to experience the park in his own way. Jamie also enjoyed eating, and he had some favorite foods that brought him great happiness. Among his favorites were spaghetti and meatballs and Kentucky Fried Chicken. For dessert, he loved vanilla ice cream and even enjoyed pork rinds as a special snack. When Jamie’s mother, Avis, passed away on June 2, 2010, his brother Jeffrey continued to care for him. Jeffrey, along with Casmir Services, ensured that Jamie received loving care and support for the next 16 years.