Thomas J. Poole, Jr.

Thomas Poole, Jr., affectionately known to most as Coach Poole, was born on May 16, 1953 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was the oldest of seven children born to the late Thomas Poole, Sr. and Reatha Poole. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Annie Bray and Rita Faye Greene, and niece Lacretia Bray.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Eddie Jo Williamson; his son, Damian Poole; his daughter, Jazmin Carter (Demetrius); and his bonus daughters, Lauren Gordon and Carmen Rainey (William). He also helped raise Garrick Lawson and Jabari Jones. He was the proud "Pawpaw-Tom" to seven grandchildren who brought him immense joy: Nyla, Ryan, Rory, Alise, Xavier, Miles and Imani. He is also survived by his brothers William Poole (Pamela), Wade Poole and Charles Poole, sister Melissa Poole Mullen, nephews: Mark Greene Jr, Charles Poole Jr, Jamar Greene, Mychael Wade Poole (Jasmine), Tevin Poole, Terrance Poole, nieces :Tiffany Campbell, Jamie Bray, Candace Jones, Meghan Mullen, My’Kael Poole, Mia Ci-mone Wyche; godmother Margaret Freeman, goddaughters Brandi Greer and Briana Harrison; a host of family and friends, his church home Saint Mark Baptist Church, colleagues, countless players, students and their parents, and his “Forest Heights Family”.

Tom graduated from Northside High School in Fort Smith (Class of 1971) earning Hall of Fame honors. Though he began playing basketball later than many would assume—starting at Darby Junior High—his determination and discipline set him apart. Focused on his studies and working various jobs, including shining shoes to help support his family, he learned early the value of hard work. He continued his education at Hendrix College graduating in 1975 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He also earned another Hall of Fame distinction for setting the record for the most field goals in a season and a career. He remains the fourth-leading scorer in Warrior history with 1,810 points.

After a brief period of substitute teaching in Fort Smith, Tom began his career with the Little Rock School District in 1977 at Forest Heights Junior High School as a physical science teacher, Head Boys Basketball Coach, Assistant Football Coach, and Head Girls Track Coach. He later served as head of the science department. Throughout his tenure he demonstrated leadership, discipline, and commitment to excellence that would define his career.

Coach Poole’s impact extended far beyond one sport or school. In addition to leading his own programs, he assisted in basketball, track, and football across multiple programs, contributing to numerous championship seasons, including the celebrated Lady Warriors 1997 State Championship win under the leadership of Coach Charlie Johnson. Their successful coaching partnership continued as Coach Johnson later transitioned to J.A. Fair High School.

Even in his later years, Coach Poole’s commitment to mentorship never wavered. He continued serving the Little Rock School District as a volunteer assistant coach at Parkview High School working alongside his dear friend, Coach Alfred Flannigan. He remained a trusted mentor and supporter to athletic programs throughout the district.

Coach Poole’s impact extended beyond the classroom and the athletic arena as he also taught Sunday school at St. Mark Baptist Church. He was also known for mentoring many young men and women in the city who looked to him for encouragement, humor, and his unique storytelling.

After his retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, attending high school games and going to the gym with Coach Flannigan, bird-feeding, and traveling with his wife. They most recently traveled to Buenos Aires, Argentina and Antarctica.

Coach Poole’s life was marked by his faith, service, leadership, and love. His legacy will endure in the countless lives he touched.