Russell Neal Poole, 86, of Union Grove, N.C., passed away after declining health at Wilkes Medical Center on Friday, November 6, 2020. A native of Iredell County, Russell was born to the late Wesley Cleveland and Mary Sprinkle Poole on August 26, 1934.

Russell was employed by Southern Screw Factory and then served his country honorably in the U.S. Army. When he got out of the Army, he came back to Southern Screw and was employed there for over 20 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and being outdoors. After retiring from Southern Screw, he worked for the NCDOT, having numerous positions, including encroachment officer. He took so much pride in working and worked all the way up until his late 70s.

Russell was a loving husband, wonderful father, loving Pawpaw and great friend. He made time for everyone. He will be missed by all who knew him. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 62 years and best friend, Agnes Poteat Poole; a son, Rory Neal Poole (Amonda); one daughter, Kim Roeton (Gregg); and a brother, Billy Poole. Four grandchildren, Wesley Poole (Bailey), Darian Sanner (George), Sarah Young and Kaitlin Kaistiansen (Kyle) also survive. He also leaves behind his very special great-granddaughter Adaline Poole, who will miss him dearly.

Russell was not only a family man but also a Godly man. He was a faithful member of Sweet Home Baptist Church. He took pride in everything he did. He held every position in the church except pastor. He was on the cemetery committee, board of trustees, Sunday school teacher, Deacon, and Choir director and usher, but his favorite and most proud duty was being the flag bearer for the church.

Mr. Poole will lie in state at Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home on Friday, November 13, 2020, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the family present from 4 to 5 p.m. An additional visitation will be held at Sweet Home Baptist Church in Union Grove on Saturday, November 14, 2020, at 10 a.m. with a celebration of life service following at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with full military honors.

Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the Poole family with Mr. Poole’s care.