Patrick Ervin Poole

Patrick Ervin "Pat" Poole, 75, of Ellijay, Georgia, passed away on July 20, 2025, at his home. He was a loving husband to Ann, father to Jason and Joseph, and a friend to all. He will be deeply missed.

Pat was born in Salisbury, NC, to Joseph William and Geraldine (Walker) Poole on March 8, 1950. He accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior early in life and followed his faith throughout his days. He was active in scouting and earned his Eagle Scout badge in 1967. He attended East Rowan High School and graduated in 1968. He drove a school bus and played the guitar during that time.

Pat went on to attend the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and DeKalb College in Georgia. In 1973, he earned his accreditation as a Respiratory Therapist from Crawford Long Hospital/Emory University. During this time, he was instrumental in the CPR education program and became an affiliate faculty member for the American Heart Association (AHA). He was awarded the Bronze Medal by The AHA for his work in CPR.

Pat enjoyed a decade-long career as a Respiratory Therapist before deciding to join the family wholesale nursery business. He loved being outside and working hard every day. After 15 years, health challenges prompted another career change. In 1997, he began working in the warehouse at Toto, USA. He ended his career 20 years later as a project manager at the company.

In retirement, Pat bought a home in Ellijay, GA, and invited his mother to come live with him. Of all his successes, his greatest pride was raising two incredible sons. He cherished being part of their Boy Scout journeys and, even more so, watching them grow into the amazing men they are today.

Pat loved fishing in his pond with his neighbor, puttering around the yard, and working on cars with his son. One of his favorite hobbies was cooking and he delighted in trying new recipes and cooking styles. He also volunteered as a CASA and portrayed Santa Claus for various organizations and schools-though in truth, he was Santa year-round. He loved children, and they loved him.

Pat was rarely seen without a smile. Full of laughter and joy, always optimistic, he believed in being the best he could be within his circumstances-setting a good example, living his faith rather than simply speaking it, and feeling gratitude for all his blessings.

You are invited to join us in honoring the life of our beloved Pat:

Friday, August 1, 2025, 2:00–4:00 PM

East Ellijay Baptist Church

672 Yukon Rd.

Ellijay, GA 30536

He is survived by:

His sons, Jason (Jeri) Poole and Joseph Poole;

Grandchildren, Zolan, I'ason, Baelin, Enzo, Aveon, and Kielan Poole, all of Georgia;

Sisters-in-law, Lola (Bogguss) Sloop and Julie (Mead) Bogguss, both of Charlotte, NC;

Nieces, Isabel Sloop, Jakolia Cross, and Vanessa Cross, all of Georgia;

Nephews, Ian Bogguss and Stephen Sloop, both of Charlotte, NC.

He was preceded in death by:

His beloved wife, Ann (Bogguss) Poole;

His sister, Becki (Poole) Cross;

His mother, Geraldine (Walker) Poole;

Brother-in-law, Pete Bogguss;

Sister-in-law, Lynne Bogguss;

Niece, Serena Cross.