Port Orchard lost a devoted public servant, family members confirmed, with the Feb. 1 passing of longtime City Councilmember Carolyn Powers at age 98.

Powers was appointed to the council in the 1980s and served 26 years before retiring in 2013. She also served a two-year term as a state representative of the 26th legislative district before her time on council, marking her entrance into politics first played by her late husband Paul D. Powers.

Powers’ daughter, Deidra Larson, continues to recognize what she calls her mom’s “pioneering spirit. She was willing to try new things and go places, but it was her perseverance. That’s why I think she lived so long.”

Powers had a record of looking to stay out of city business, attending the necessary functions and public appearances with her husband. However, her later motivations for serving on council were to see her community progress and her ability to understand the needs of the people. “She loved people, she loved her community and she loved her nation,” Larson said.

Powers also had a lengthy career as administrative secretary at Marcus Whitman Junior High School in the South Kitsap School District.

Former Councilmember John Clauson said her dedication to the city was equal to that of her care of her family and the many kids she served in her prior career.

“She loved Port Orchard and the South Kitsap community and always wanted to do more to help Port Orchard evolve and develop,” he said. “It was definitely one of her top three priorities.”