Charlene Anne Powers-Broadbent

Charlene (Hopkins) Powers-Broadbent, age 65, died from complications of Covid-19 on Sunday January 17th, 2021 at Banner Estrella Medical Center, with her daughters by her side. From her birth in Phoenix, on December 28th, 1955 to her death, she was known for her quick wit, sense of humor, selfless nature, and admirable work ethic. As a brilliant insurance professional who started Powers-Leavitt Insurance as a single mother more than 30 years ago, Charlene was a respected leader and true pioneer for women within the industry. 

She graduated from Buckeye Union High School in 1973 as the first-ever female Student Body President, where she met her highschool sweetheart, (Clyde) Russell Powers, Jr. Charlene and Russell married on September 5, 1974 in Yuma, AZ. Though their relationship turned out to be less permanent than either of them expected, both went on to remarry and they remained proud of their children, Lisa and Stacy, for the entirety of each of their lives. 

An exciting new chapter began for Charlene when she met John (Jay) Howard Broadbent III. Charlene and Jay married December 12, 1992 in Phoenix, AZ and combined their families for more than 28 years. As a source of love, stability and calm to Charlene, he supported her many roles as a true partner. Jay also gave Charlene one of the greatest joys of her life, her youngest daughter, CJ. The arrival of CJ, many years after her sisters, gave Charlene another opportunity at motherhood and she relished that role. 

One of her favorite roles was that of "Grandma Charlene." She enthusiastically enjoyed her four grandchildren, spoiling them with great adventures and experiences. It didn’t matter if it was a shopping trip or concert or art project or sporting event, Grandma Charlene was always game. 

Left to honor Charlene and remember her love are her husband Jay, and her three daughters, Lisa (Brian) Vayda, Stacy Powers, and CJ Broadbent; four grandchildren: Maya, Luka, Colton, and Cameron; brother Richard and sister Susan (Jake); and her beloved nieces Kathleen Reilly and Selena (Ruben) Ramirez. Charlene was preceded in death by her parents Cecil and Anna May and her brother Patrick. 

Charlene will be remembered as an amazing mother, exceptional grandmother, dedicated sister, beloved aunt, and loyal friend. She will also be remembered as a pillar of the Buckeye community with her commitment to maintaining the special small-town vibe of downtown, the betterment of education for the youth of Buckeye, and the continued support of the local teachers and school districts. She volunteered her help with “Everything Buckeye” and was willing to assist anyone in need. Last, but not least, Charlene will be remembered as the life of the party, a gifted gambler, an avid traveler, and the glue that held everything together. 

Charlene’s funeral services will be held as a private ceremony on Friday, January 29th, 2021. Services will be streamed for those who would like to attend online: https://evt.live/charlenepowers . Burial will follow at the Hazelton Memorial Cemetery, 23100 W Broadway Rd, Buckeye, AZ 85326. The Powers-Broadbent family would like to extend our gratitude to all the staff at the Banner Estrella Medical Center, specifically those in the ICU for their attentiveness and loving care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Charlene’s honor to The Education Foundation for Buckeye Elementary School District (PO Box 190, Buckeye, AZ 85326).