Photo No. 2809

Wayne Pool, Sr., born August 27, 1949, passed away unexpectedly on March 1, 2026.

Mr. Pool began working as a lineman immediately after high school, following his service in the National Guard as a young man. He retired from Gulf States Utilities in 1995 after more than 25 years of dedicated service. Though he worked faithfully in his profession, his true life's passion was ranching. A proud third-generation cattleman, Wayne was born to work cattle. Some may have said he was obsessed — but those who knew him best understood that it was simply what he was born to do. Many have remarked that he likely knew more about cows than anyone in Walker County.

Wayne was a devoted husband, a kind and gentle father, and an exceptional Christian man. He worked from daylight to dark his entire life and was greatly admired for both his strength and his character. Known by many as "a man with nine lives," Wayne demonstrated remarkable resilience time and again. Nearly ten years ago, he underwent a heart transplant that granted him a second chance at life. He carried that gift with deep gratitude and humility, never taking a single day for granted.

Years ago, when his heart issues became serious, the doctor informed him he needed immediate hospitalization for surgery and would not even be able to return home beforehand. Mr. Pool's response was "Oh no, sir — I can't do that. I'm on call this weekend." His sense of responsibility and his unshakable work ethic were simply part of his makeup. Many believe it was that drive — knowing he still had work to do — that carried him through so much.

Wayne was also well known for his fire-building skills. Some might have referred to him as somewhat of a pyromaniac, but he preferred to say he was "putting it back in the soil." He never could stand to see a pasture full of dead grass go to waste and was famous for his "controlled burns" — a term those who knew him understood could be interpreted loosely. Consequently, just a few days ago, a representative from the Forest Service called to offer condolences and jokingly remarked that he hoped they had good firefighters in Heaven for Mr. Pool.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Miller Pool and Mary Jo Cotton Pool; his brother-in-law, Boyd Wilder; along with his son-in-law, David Ryan Newman; and his grandson, Blake Newman.

He is survived by his beloved wife of more than 52 years, Deborah Chandler Pool, and three children: Sandy Pool Newman; Wayne Pool, Jr. and wife Crystal; and Suzy Pool Riley and husband Gary. He was a proud grandfather to twelve grandchildren: Morgan T. Newman, Gus Newman, Emme Loman, Cotton Pool, Caroline Pool, Henry Pool, Sarah Jane Pool, Maddie Riley, Jack Riley, Grady Riley, Mary Jo Riley, and Raymond Riley. He is also survived by his sister, Becky Wilder, and his brother, Rodney Pool.

Pallbearers will be his six grandsons: Gus, Jack, Cotton, Grady, Henry, and Raymond. Honorary pallbearers are William Louis Stephens, David Martin, Donnie Thomas, Willie Williams, and Dana Cotton.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to his caregiver, Anita Chick, for her exceptional care — from fixing his coffee to helping him feed cows and mend fences. Wayne also thought very highly of his local doctor and friend, Dr. T.C. Cole, Jr., and the family expresses sincere appreciation to Dr. Reynolds M. Delgado, his transplant physician. We would also like to thank Pastor C.F. Hazlewood and the congregation of Fellowship of Huntsville Church.

Wayne Pool, Sr. was truly one of a kind — a hardworking cattleman, a faithful servant, and the greatest of men — leaving behind a legacy of honor, resilience, and unwavering devotion to family and faith.

Service will be officiated by longtime family friend, Dr. Jason Bay. Visitation will be Wednesday evening, March 4th, from 6-8pm at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home, and the service will take place Thursday morning, March 5th at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Ebenezer Cemetery.

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