Danielle Marie Powell

Danielle M. (Driscoll) Powell, of Merrimack, NH, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at the age of 76. She is the beloved wife of William (Hap) Powell with whom she celebrated 52 years of marriage this past August; and devoted mom to daughter Erin M. Goebel and husband Nathan, and son, Matthew W. Powell.

She was born in Boston, MA on March 25, 1950 to the late Doris M. and Daniel F. Driscoll. She was raised in Reading, MA, graduated from Reading Memorial High School, and went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from New England College in Henniker, NH. She taught Fourth Grade in the Merrimack Schools for over 25 years. Mrs. Powell’s ability to connect with and inspire her young students was truly an amazing gift. Her love for teddy bears was shared with all. The kids took “Theo” home for weekend adventures and returned with fun stories for their classmates. She always told them she was 120 years old, which they believed.

Beyond her dedication in the classroom, Danielle was a talented artist who spent years creating exquisite American folk art, watercolor, and Tole paintings, frequently taking on custom commissions. Her hand-painted Easter baskets, in particular, will endure as cherished keepsakes for all who received them.

As an active and long-serving member of The Lions Club of Merrimack, she poured her energy into planning community events and local programs. She notably spearheaded a diabetes research fundraiser, personally painting the faces of handcrafted burlap scarecrows that brought festive charm to lawns all across town.

In her free time, Danielle loved soaking up the sun on the beaches of Cape Cod, relaxing at Pleasant Lake in NH, and vacationing in Aruba with her family and friends. She had an avid love of and an abundant collection of teddy bears. A model of grace and quiet resilience, she met life with an unfailing positive spirit and brought immense joy to those around her, leaving behind a legacy of boundless generosity and kindness.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years William Powell; her son Matthew Powell; her daughter Erin Goebel and husband Nathan; sister Deborah E. Soda and husband William; her brother Daniel F. Driscoll III and wife Catherine; and her sister Deirdre D. Schiefen and husband Steven. "Auntie Di" held a special place in the hearts of her many nieces and nephews, bringing them - and receiving from them - tremendous joy. Beyond her family circle, Danielle was a devoted and loyal friend.

Calling hours will be held at the Rivet Funeral Home located at 425 Daniel Webster in Merrimack, NH on November 21st from 12PM-3PM . A private burial will be held at a later date.

Danielle’s family extends their heartfelt thanks to her at-home caregivers and the medical team at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Nashua. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Danielle’s honor to the charity of your choice.