Dempsey Monroe Powell was born 16 Mar 1828 and lived in Butler County, Alabama. A biography of his youngest son (also named Dempsey Monroe Powell) states that Powell was "a member of Gen. Forrest's cavalry and later of the 17th." I have located his brief service record as D. M. Powell, a Pvt. in Co. C 17th Alabama Infantry. I have not located any prior military service and rather doubt the mention of service with Forrest. If anyone has information about Powell having served in Forrest's cavalry, I would appreciate knowing about that.

Powell died 11 December 1863 at home in Butler County. I have not been able to determine where he was buried and would like to know that information if it is available. His first wife was Rebecca Ward of Butler County who died very young after marrying and having two babies in the mid 1850's. By 1860, Powell was married to his second wife Mary Ann Scott who later applied for Confederate widow's pension. Affidavits included with the pension application file state that he died at home on furlough "on account sickness from typhoid fever". His service record shows Date of Discharge 3 April 1863. Does it seem likely that his having been discharged instead of furloughed would indicate that the Confederate Army did not expect him to recover and return to service? Any additional information about Dempsey Monroe Powell will be appreciated.
Lynda Lowery