James "Jimmy" Everett Poole Jr.

James "Jimmy" Everett Poole Jr., 84, peacefully took Jesus' hand when he transitioned to his eternal home in Heaven on February 12, 2024.  To celebrate his life, please honor him by attending the graveside service to be held in the Keysville United Methodist Church Cemetery at 11:00 AM, Friday, February 16, 2024 with Rev. Ed Chance officiating. 

Born on April 14, 1939 to the late Margaret Taylor Poole and the late James Everett Poole, Jimmy was a lifelong resident of Keysville.  He shared a close bond with his parents and looked up to them as role models. 

In 1957, he proudly graduated from Burke County High School in Waynesboro. This milestone provided him with a strong foundation for his future endeavors.   

In 1959, he served in the Army in Germany during the German Crisis, demonstrating unwavering dedication to protecting and upholding the values of our nation.

From an early age, it was clear that Jimmy's life would be filled with diverse experiences and accomplishments. He possessed a very multi-faceted career, reflecting his versatility and dedication to hard work. Jimmy contributed to the operations of the family farm and lent his skills at the family-owned market, The Keysville Store. He also dedicated himself to serving others at Gracewood State School and Hospital in Augusta, Georgia-Tennessee Mining Company in Wrens, Avera Hardware in Wrens, and Barrow and Prescott in Matthews. Additionally, he played an important role in various construction projects over the years.

One of the most meaningful chapters of Jimmy's life began when his parents met a couple from Illinois who would become close family friends. It was through this connection that Jimmy's parents learned about a remarkable missionary serving in Africa. Intrigued by their stories, Jimmy initiated correspondence with this lady abroad. Their exchange of long, deep thoughts created a beautiful bond that grew stronger as time passed.  When they finally met face to face, love blossomed instantaneously - it was truly love at first sight. In 1984 at the age of 45, Jimmy married this extraordinary woman who captured his heart completely. Together, they made their home in Keysville, cherishing each other's companionship and forming an unbreakable bond. Their love endured and deepened despite the challenges that life threw their way, including the heartbreaking loss of their only child.

Jimmy's devotion to his wife extended beyond words. He cherished her with all his heart and considered her his greatest blessing. Beyond the love he shared with his beloved wife, Jimmy remained incredibly close to his entire family. Though not blessed with other children of his own, he wholeheartedly embraced his nieces and nephews, treating them as if they were his own flesh and blood.

A people-person through and through, Jimmy had an uncanny ability to connect with others. He possessed a warm charisma that made initiating conversations with strangers a natural talent. His congenial nature charmed all who encountered him. Over the years, he developed strong bonds within the community and was well-loved by all who knew him.

While Jimmy held a fondness for travel, he never felt at home anywhere but Keysville. To him, this small town held a special place in his heart that could never be replaced by any other destination. His roots ran deep in Keysville, where he fostered a genuine love for community and a profound sense of belonging.

In addition to his magnetic personality, Jimmy had several hobbies and interests that brought him joy throughout his life. In his younger years, he loved nothing more than fishing and hunting amidst nature's beauty. Animals held a special place in his heart as well, and he always had a loyal canine companion by his side.

Most importantly, Jimmy accepted God’s free gift of salvation through His son, Jesus, and served Him faithfully throughout his life. His life of devotion and faith is an example to all. 

Jimmy will be dearly missed by his surviving family, who find solace in the cherished memories they shared with him. He leaves behind his adoring wife, Anna Kirkwood Poole; his loving sisters, Alice Howard (Frank) and Hazel Eason (William), who will forever hold his spirit close to their hearts; and his nieces and nephews, James Eason, William Eason Jr., Betty Eason (Brad Ellis), Michael Howard (Amy), Ann Howard, Brian Howard (Jenny), Gregg Howard (Jamie), and Vickie Howard. Jimmy's impact was also felt among extended family members who admired his incredible spirit as well as countless friends who have been touched by his presence and will forever treasure the moments they spent together.

Jimmy exemplified kindness, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved. He lived a life filled with faith, purpose and genuine connections. His memory will continue to inspire all who knew him to embrace life's joys while cherishing the bonds of family, church family and friendship. In our hearts, his spirit will forever reside as we honor the remarkable legacy he leaves behind.  We celebrate the hope and promise that he has found eternal peace in the arms of heaven.