James Allen "Jim" Poole

James "Jim" Poole 80 of Verona, KY passed away on January 04, 2024. Jim was born at home in Verona on June 22, 1943 to Joseph and Sarah Poole. Jim is survived by his wife Carolyn Ferguson Poole of 53 years, son Brian Poole (Karen) of Florence, daughter Mary Poole of Cincinnati, OH, and grandchildren Aidan and Reagan Poole and several nieces and nephews.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents and siblings Rose Dewalt, Jean Phipps, Nell Jo Nantz, Richard Poole, and Donald Poole. Jim was a retired computer programmer with the IRS, an Air Force veteran, and member of St. Paul Church, in Florence, KY.
Jim graduated from Walton Verona High School in 1961 and joined the Air Force stationed in Biloxi, MS, Grand Forks, ND, and Sioux City, IA. Jim was thrilled about the time in 1963 he got to shake President Kennedy's hand during a visit to the base.
Jim met the love of his life, Carol in 1969. They were married on August 8, 1970. Over their 53 years of marriage, Jim and Carol enjoyed many fun activities together such as bowling leagues, the church choir, travel. Some over their favorite trips were Gatlinburg, Savannah, GA, Charlotte, NC, many trips to Orlando, FL, a Fall trip through the New England State, a Royal Carribean Cruise and even a trip to Hawaii in the early 2000s.
Jim was a huge Kentucky Wildcat fan, but it was difficult sometimes to watch games with him due to his "emotional investment" in the game. Brian remembers many times when they lived in Kansas City in the early 1980's driving out to the middle of nowhere in Kansas Jim could tune in the car radio to listen to Cawood Ledford call the Cats game.
Jim was also an avid genealogist and had traced his family back to 1700 England. A few years ago he made sure to tell us that we were related to Winston Churchill, the Spencers (Lady Diana) who also sold land to George Washington to construct Mt. Vernon.
Jim loved studying history and over the years visited cemeteries and battlefields all over the US. If we were traveling and there was a museum or cemetery nearby, he was stopping.
Jim also played softball for 25 years and was a very good first baseman. He could still make run saving stretching plays at 45 years old. Brian would always go with him to his games, mostly to play in the creek, but when he was older actually watched him play and would score games. The best part for Jim was enjoying some beers after each game with his friends and swapping stories.
Jim was also a proud grandpa. From the moment Brian and Karen announced to them they were expecting, Jim and Carol were so excited. Carol also made sure everyone dining in the Olive Garden that day knew as well. The excitement over their second child was equally matched. Aidan and Reagan never spent time in daycare on Fridays as they were always with Grandpa and Mimi. Jim would spend hours with Aidan and his toy garage and train set. Jim never missed a tea party with Reagan, and grilled cheeses were a must. Jim loved answering the grandchildren's millions of questions. Once, Aidan's first grade teacher complimented his mother on teaching Aidan about photosynthesis. She was amazed how much Aidan already knew. Karen was quick to let her know that it was a lesson from grandpa. Grandpa and Mimi never missed opportunities to be present at their school and extra-curricular activities including sports, recitals, theatre etc. Whatever they were interested in Grandpa wanted to be there.
Jim was always spoiling the family pets, especially after he retired. The most recent dogs Maggie and Madigan were no different, they knew Jim could be counted on for lots of playtime and treats. He loved his "grand dogs" Jasimine, McGuffey and Tichy too. Jim really enjoyed when his daughter Mary would bring McGuffey for visits.
Visitation services will be from 9a to 11:30a on Wednesday January 10th at Stith Funeral Home, 7500 US 42, Florence, KY 41042. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 12p at St. Paul Church at 7301 Dixie Hwy in Florence, KY. Jim will be laid to rest with military honors on Wednesday January 10th at 2p at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery North in Williamstown, KY. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 644 Linn St, Cincinnati, OH 45203