Louise Fragala, of Central Florida, passed into the loving arms of God on September 6th, 2024. She died from congestive heart failure, surrounded by her family at a hospice house.
Louise was born Ida Louise Powell in Rhodell, West Virginia on August 7th, 1949 to Maudie Annalee (Parker) Powell and Eugene Powell. She was the eldest of two and grew up in Fairfax, Virginia, where she graduated at the top of her high school class with many honors, showing much promise for her future.
While home from college at Clemson University, she was asked out by a young professional, Augie Fragala, Jr. They were wed at the chapel at Arlington on January 30th, 1971, and rode a horse and carriage into their new life together. They lived briefly in Springfield, Virginia, then Cary, NC, and settled in Florida. First living in Miami Lakes where their two children, Nikki and Trey (AMF III) were born, they moved their young family to newly-built Miramar where they were both deeply involved in the community, sitting on Boards and supporting campaigns.
They moved to Lakeland, Florida in 1987, where she enjoyed southern culture again. Together with Augie, she launched their urban planning and public involvement firm, Powell, Fragala, and Associates, Inc.. She was a leader in the business community and a charter member of the League of Women Voters.
Louise’s journey through life was marked by warmth, friendliness, and an unwavering devotion to her loved ones. Her friendly nature and sense of humor made her easy to like. She was fun and charming and brought light to all she encountered. Louise found immense joy in being a mother and grandmother. Her love knew no bounds, and the memories created together will forever be etched in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
Faith was not just a part of Louise’s life; it was her guiding force. Her commitment to her faith communities was evident in the way she lived each day. She leaves behind a legacy of joy, a life well lived, and an indelible impact on the lives of those who were fortunate enough to call her family and friend.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her birth father, Wayne Tillman, as well as her husband, Augie, Jr. (2014). She is survived by her brother Timothy Powell, her adult children Nikki (Mike), Trey (Marisa), and her beloved grandchildren Caleb, Laurence, James, Dominic and Nicholas.