AACG News
In Memoriam - Stephen Rolfe Powell
Stephen Rolfe Powell has passed away at age 67 on March 16, an incredibly sad shock to the entire glass community. His obituary can be found at Preston-Pruitt-Spurlin Funeral Home. This letter was posted on Facebook from the President of Centre College, where Stephen had been a professor since 1983.
Stephen Rolfe Powell was born in Birmingham, Alabama in 1951. He studied painting and ceramics at Centre College and received a Bachelor of Arts in 1974. Before attending graduate school at Louisiana State University, Powell spent several years as an art instructor, first at the Draper State Prison and later at the Indian Springs School in Alabama. Between 1980 and 1983, he attended LSU and earned a Master of Fine Arts in Ceramics. It was during this time that Powell had his first experience with hot glass and it has since become a full-time obsession. His daily life revolves around it, whether he is teaching glass at Centre College or producing his own work.
Undoubtedly, Stephen Powell’s greatest impact has been at Centre College in Danville, KY where he has been a professor since 1983. Originally hired to teach ceramics and sculpture, he founded a glass program at Centre in 1985 which has attracted prospective students from around the country. Undoubtedly, Stephen Powell’s greatest impact has been at Centre College in Danville, KY where he has been a professor since 1983. Originally hired to teach ceramics and sculpture, he founded a glass program at Centre in 1985 which has attracted prospective students from around the country. Read more about Stephen on his website.
Close family and friends gatheered for a private ceremony. A celebration of Stephen’s life will be held in Danville in the coming months. In lieu of flowers gifts may be made to the Stephen Rolfe Powell Memorial Fund at Centre College at 600 West Walnut Street, Danville KY 40422.
| Posted 19 Mar 17
