Willis Wells Poole Jr.

Willis Wells Poole Jr., 72, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Americus Ga, he was the beloved son of Dorothy Lee Mae Poole and Willis Wells Poole Sr on August 16 1953.

Willis was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, veteran, and friend whose life was rooted in faith, family, and hard work. On June 14 1986, he married the love of his life, Barbara, and together they built a home filled with strength, laughter, and unwavering love. They were married just shy of 40 years. Their love story began with a simple but meaningful first date where his cousin Toni introduced them— fishing together at his Uncle Aaron and Aunt Mary’s pond, a memory they cherished throughout their years together.

He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; his children, Rachel Pope, Russell Pope, Lydia Davis (Donald), and Caleb Poole ; and his cherished grandchildren, Gavin, Arielle, Robbie, Jason, Nikki, Zach, Keller, Caroline, Teddy, and Dorothy. Willis and Barbara lovingly raised two of their grandchildren, Nikki and Zach, as their own, pouring into them the same guidance, care, and steadfast love that defined his life.

He is also survived by his sisters, Grace and her husband Chuck Pless, and Diane and her husband Fred Kobs, along with nieces Amy (Jesse), Alice, Ashley (Paul), Meagan (Casper) Jenny and nephew Charles (Donna), extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Willis proudly served his country in the United States Navy for over 10 years. During his military career, he adventured across six continents, gaining experiences and stories that stayed with him throughout his life. His service reflected the same dedication, resilience, and strong sense of duty that he carried into every part of his life.

A godly man, Willis faithfully attended church every time the doors were open. He could often be found helping with church projects on Saturdays, always willing to lend his hands wherever they were needed. His faith was not only spoken but lived through service, kindness, and dedication to others. He never missed traveling back home to Georgia for the annual homecoming at Hopewell Methodist Church, a tradition that meant so much to him and kept him closely connected to his roots and family.

Willis loved the outdoors and found joy in fishing, spending time at the lake, taking road trips, and simply being outside taking naps. He also enjoyed metal detecting and was an active member of a metal detecting group, always excited by the possibility of discovering hidden treasures and sharing that hobby with others. He was always “piddling” with a new project and happiest when working with his hands.

He especially enjoyed traveling to the Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale, visiting with his sisters and nieces, and making memories with the people he loved most. One of his favorite adventures was taking spontaneous last-minute road trips across Florida and Georgia with his wife and daughters in search of Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist finds. To Willis, those trips were never just about what was being picked up — they were about the time spent together, the stories shared on the road, and the memories made along the way.

A hardworking and strong-willed man, Willis showed love not through words alone but through action. Whether he was building something, fixing a problem, helping his daughters with home projects, or doing favors for friends and family, he gave of himself freely. He was tough, resilient, and dependable, yet deeply loving in his own quiet and steadfast way.

Above all else, Willis loved his family. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the things he built, the strength he passed down, and the countless lives he touched through his generosity, faith, and devotion.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.