Eddie Eugene Poye

With profound sadness and a heart full of cherished memories, we share the loss of our beloved son, brother, and unforgettable soul, Eddie Poye. He passed away unexpectedly on July 16th, leaving a legacy of joy, resilience, and kindness that touched everyone who knew him.
Eddie was born with both physical and intellectual disabilities, and from the very beginning, he defied all odds and expectations. He was tough and survived two very risky childhood heart surgeries. He continued to confront challenges and stereotypes and lived a gratifying life.
His bigger-than-life personality was magnetic. Eddie did not discriminate and would not be defined as part of any group. Instead, he effortlessly transitioned across all groups; he was a friend to all.
In high school, he enthusiastically led hundreds of students in cheers at pep rallies, won popularity votes for being "Friendliest," and was awarded "The Most Outstanding Student," receiving a standing ovation at his graduation from Weatherford High School.
Eddie knew how to engage people and had the remarkable ability to converse. He remembered the best in what people had done and shared that with them with such positive energy.
Following high school, Eddie competed in and won numerous Special Olympics medals, including gold medals. He enjoyed competitions, both as a fan and as an athlete.
He was not the type to be star-struck, and when Eddie appeared on stage with ZZ Top, he never boasted about it afterward. This was a hallmark example of Eddie's personality.
Several years after finishing high school, Eddie moved to Brownwood, TX, and lived in a group home on Steward Street. His new home allowed him independence and structure. Over the next three-plus decades, he made so many friendships with wonderful people who lived in or worked at the house.
Eddie had an extraordinary work ethic, working 34 years at TIBH Industries. He was awarded for his Outstanding Performance in the Works Wonders Program and Employee of the Year. He loved the people he worked with, and they brought him great happiness.
Throughout his life, his natural charisma caused people to gravitate to him everywhere he went. People genuinely liked Eddie, as he was so kind. He greeted total strangers as friends.
Eddie's life was a remarkable journey of overcoming obstacles, spreading joy, and improving the world. He leaves behind friends and family who loved him deeply and who were continually touched by his kindness, smile, and enthusiasm for life.
The phrase on a ball cap he recently wore was, "Be Kind to All Kinds," which reflected his deep belief in caring for all people.
Memories of him will bring us sustained happiness.