Hilda Powers Versluys

Portsmouth- Hilda Powers Versluys passed away peacefully on July 27, 2026, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, at the age of 97. Born in Portland, Maine, on January 17, 1929, she was the eldest child of Leon Herbert Powers and Alice Batchelor Powers. Hilda believed that learning was one of life's greatest pursuits. That belief shaped her distinguished career and the way she approached the world. She earned degrees from Colby-Sawyer College, the University of New Hampshire, and Northeastern University, and continued expanding her knowledge throughout her life through additional studies and professional development. In 1968, Hilda married Willem Versluys, who lovingly adopted her four sons. Willem's Dutch and Indonesian heritage became an important part of their lives, and they spent many happy summers in the Netherlands embracing its culture and history. At home, Hilda enjoyed sharing those influences with family and friends, including her love of Indonesian sambal in her cooking. To her colleagues and students, she was Hilda Versluys, an educator and occupational therapy leader. To her family, she was Oma—a woman whose curiosity, intellect, and unmistakable spirit left a lasting impression. Hilda's professional career spanned more than three decades. She worked as an Occupational Therapist specializing in psychiatry and physical rehabilitation before becoming a professor and mentor to future healthcare professionals at Cleveland State University, Boston University's Sargent College of Allied Health Professions, and Tufts University's Boston School of Occupational Therapy. Throughout her career, Hilda was recognized internationally for her expertise, leadership, and commitment to improving the lives of others. She served as a patient advocate and founding president of the Board of Trustees for The South Norfolk Community Services Day Treatment Program, advised the World Federation of Occupational Therapists and the World Health Organization, participated in international educational initiatives, and contributed to publications and programs that advanced occupational therapy around the world. Former students remained in contact with her for decades, a testament to the impact she had on their lives. Retirement never slowed Hilda's curiosity. She volunteered at the Portsmouth Atheneum, embraced new technology with enthusiasm, and often amazed younger generations with her knowledge of the latest devices and software. Even into her nineties, she remained an avid reader, followed world events closely, enjoyed lively political discussions, and loved foreign films and the conversations they inspired with her movie group. Those who knew Hilda also knew she possessed a formidable spirit. She spoke her mind, stood firmly by her convictions, and was fiercely loyal to those she loved. Whether advocating for family, friends, students, or someone who simply needed support, she was never afraid to stand up for what was right. Her strength, sharp wit, and unapologetic authenticity earned her the affectionate reputation of being something of a "hard ass". Family remained an important part of Hilda's life. She loved bringing everyone together for holidays filled with food, laughter, and time spent reconnecting. She took great pride in the accomplishments of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and enjoyed hearing about their lives. Hilda was predeceased by her beloved husband, Willem Versluys; her parents, Leon Herbert Powers and Alice Batchelor Powers; and her siblings, Linda Nickerson and David Powers. She is survived by her four sons, Mark, Dana, Nathan (Michelle) Bradford (Betsy); her eight cherished grandchildren; and her three beloved great-grandchildren. In keeping with Hilda's lifelong devotion to education, her family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to the Wentworth Senior Living Employee Education Scholarship Program. Support Us - Wentworth Senior Living Staff Scholarships. At this time, Wentworth Senior Living is only able to process donations via check. To ensure the donation goes to the desired purpose, we ask that you note it in the memo line. During the final year of her life, Hilda received exceptional care from the staff at Wentworth Senior Living and often spoke of them with great affection. They, in turn, held her in equally high regard. Supporting the education of those who care for others is a fitting tribute to a woman whose remarkable life was defined by curiosity, conviction, compassion, and an unwavering belief that learning never ends. A Celebration of Life will be held in September of 2026. Time and Place TBD.

Hilda Powers Versluys

January 17, 1929 - July 27, 2026