
Ray Poole

To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.
His story...
Ray Poole died unexpectedly on November 19th, 2024 at the age of 77, at HCA Florida Poinciana Hospital. He was born in 1947 in Scranton, Arkansas, where he lived until the age of 13, when he moved to Bronx, NY, with several of his siblings. He was one of fifteen children born to Jack and Neta Poole.
Ray attended school in the Bronx and worked alongside his brothers as a mechanic where he developed his love and knowledge of sports cars. He served in Vietnam and upon his return married his wife Louise and, soon after, moved to Connecticut to raise their family. He became a respected butcher and worked as a meat manager in Pathmark for over 40 years, earning awards for his pristine meat department. He was well liked and respected by his co-workers and formed many lasting relationships. He had an engaging personality often telling humorous and outlandish stories as he joked with everyone in his orbit. Ray was a boxer who fought in the Golden Gloves and later developed a love for Tae Kwon Do. He advanced through the ranks to “master,” achieving the level of 4th degree black belt. He was an amazing fighter and took home many first place trophies while earning the admiration of those around him. He opened Poole’s Academy of Tae Kwon Do in 1992 and together with his son Raymond, ran the school for 10 years.
Ray retired to the sunny state of Florida in 2009 and was later joined by his partner, Susan. Ray was often seen walking at the park, biking down the road, riding his Harley Davidson Fat Boy, or cruising around in his latest Corvette. He proudly participated in the annual Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Cycle for Life fundraiser with his son Raymond and his daughter-in-law Rebecca. He had a passion for gardening and loved trading gardening tips with his daughter Rachel. He had a close bond with his oldest daughter Renee, and spoke with her on the phone every single day. He leaves behind six grandchildren who will never forget his amazing sense of humor and wit. He was, by far, the coolest grandfather around. He will live forever in our hearts.
A graveside funeral will take place on Saturday, December 14th, at 1 pm, at the Poole Cemetery in Scranton, Arkansas. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, December 22nd, between the hours of 2-5 pm in the event lounge at Maggie McFly’s in Brookfield, CT. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Mission 22 to support our Veterans.
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Memory wall
His love and devotion to his family, and friends was immeasurable. His smile I will never forget.
Service
195 Federal Rd.
Suite 3
Brookfield, CT 06804
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