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Hollywood Stars Attend Dick Powell’s Funeral

Jan. 4, 1963 - Scores of Hollywood’s vintage stars attended memorial services today for one of their own — Dick Powell — and left with moist eyes and saddened hearts. It was one of the largest turnouts of stars in recent Hollywood history. More than 800 persons filled the chapel of All Saints Episcopal Church in Beverly Hills. Dr. Kermit Castellanos, assistant rector of the church, told the mourners: “This is a Christian farewell to one whom countless thousands enjoyed, loved, and admired. Richard Powell believed in the Ten Commandments, he tried to live by them, and he urged them on others. He possessed qualities that make Heaven a better place because he is there.” Powell’s widow, actress June Allyson, and their two children, Pamela, 14, and Richard, 12, attended the services. As they left the church, Miss Allyson stopped for a moment with Dr. Castellanos. “Thank you,” she told him. “That was just right.” Joan Blondell, former wife of Powell, arrived alone. Her eyes welled with tears as she entered the church. Also attending and listed among the honorary pallbearers were Mr. and Mrs. Richard M. Nixon, personal friends of the Powells. Among the many celebrities at the rites were James Stewart, Barbara Stanwyck, Ronald Reagan, Edgar Bergen, Jack Benny, Lloyd Nolan, Lloyd Bridges, James Cagney, Edward G. Robinson, Peter Falk, and George Burns.


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