Carol A. (Thomas) (Yurkanin) Powers died suddenly May 17 after a 13-year battle with breast cancer. A lifelong resident of Sterling, she ran Blacksmith Antiques and Gifts from 1981 to 1997. With her husband of 29 years, John J. Powers Jr, she worked at Sterling Auctions from 1987 to 2009, specializing in toy and doll auctions.
Carol was born in Clinton, Mass., August 29, 1948. She worked for State Mutual (now Hanover Insurance) and retired as a senior tax analyst. She was the company’s first woman consultant and co-authored tax law with Jack Kemp.
She was a member of the Institute of Management Accountants and a notary public. Carol was very proud of her Native American heritage, and was renowned for her beautiful gardens and enjoyed decorating for the holidays. She loved music and dance and gave tireless support to a number of local musicians.
A member of the First Church in Sterling, the Hiram O Taylor American Legion Post 189 Ladies Auxiliary, former Girl Scout leader, loving wife and mother, Carol is survived by her husband John, son Nikolai A. Yurkanin, daughter Rebecca Powers and sister Marianne Thomas, all of Sterling.
A funeral service in the First Church in Sterling, with burial in Oak Hill Cemetery, was conducted May 22. In lieu of flowers, donations in Carol’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701.
Friends and associates are invited to view and sign the guestbook at www.milesfuneralhome.com .
