Sarah Elizabeth (Beth) Kelley Poe

Mrs. Beth Kelley Poe passed away August 21, 2014 at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham at the age of 88. She was pre-deceased by both her parents, and also her brother Dr. Page Kelley. Beth, as she was universally known, was born in Geneva County, AL. She graduated from Howard College in 1948, along with her future husband. They were married soon after graduation. She was also a graduate of the University of Alabama where she received her Master’s degree. Beth is survived by her husband, Dr. William Allen Poe, one son Dr. William Allen Poe, Jr. MD, one daughter Jo Ellen Poe, retired elementary teacher. Beth served with her husband as a Baptist missionary in West Africa for fifteen years. Three brothers, Herman, Jack and Van Kelley, and two sisters, Yvonne Riley and Judy Childree, survive her. Beth taught as a first grade teacher for more than thirty years in Alabama and Louisiana where she was highly esteemed. She was also hostess at the Baptist Hostel in Lagos, Nigeria, where, in addition to the local missionaries, she received guests from many parts of the world.

Beth was universally loved as a pastor’s wife, missionary, teacher, and friend.

Funeral services will be held Monday August 25th at10:30 AM at Vestavia Hills Baptist Church in Birmingham where she was a member. Officiating will be Dr. Gary Furr and Dr. Fisher Humphreys.

Burial will follow at 1:30 PM at Memorial Park Cemetery in Tuscaloosa.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Vestavia Hills Baptist Church in her honor.

The family wishes to express sincere appreciation to Dr. Roller, Dr. Baillio, Dr. Conner, and the dedicated nurses on the seventh floor of St. Vincent’s Hospital. Because of their

skilled and compassionate care, Beth was able to go peacefully and comfortably to be with her Lord, whom she loved devotedly. Friends may leave their condolences at www.ridoutsvalleychapel.com.