Donald T. Poe
June 24, 1932 – February 9, 2023
Donald Tressler Poe, husband, father and friend died on February 9th, 2023 at the Hospice of the Piedmont Acute Care Center. His family and friends are thankful for Don’s long life, for memories of time spent together, and for the opportunity to be with him in recent precious moments.
Don was born and raised along the Ohio River in Maysville, KY in 1932, the fifth of eight children of Hazel Moran Poe and Samuel Henry Poe. He loved children, animals, (especially dearly departed dog, Jodie), oysters and his land. Don enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 15 when the legal age to join was 16. His eleven year army career included meritorious duty in the Korean War. While on leave in the U.S., Don met Betty Ann Onks. They were married for 33 years and raised three daughters in Richmond, Virginia and on their beloved farm, Ravenwood, in Louisa County. Don enjoyed a long career in sales with Star Expansion Company, retiring in 1988. He enjoyed many hours in his barn workshop making oak baskets, caning chair seats, and restoring furniture. He was active with VFW Post 1827 and the Loyal Order of Moose.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 33 years, Betty Ann Poe and six brothers and sisters. He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Joyce Ann Poe; his brother, Ivan Wayne Poe (Evie) of West Union, Ohio; his daughters, Donna Bowman of Stanardsville; Debra Guild (Henley) of Richmond; and Cheryl Lumsden (Jerry) of Kilmarnock. He was grandfather to Garrett Tressler Bowman (Marian), Molly Gaughran (Jeremy), Henley Guild III (fiancé Kirsten Gaines) and great-grandfather to Iris Gaughran. Other survivors include Don and Wendy Linke and their family: Jennifer Linke, Emily Linke (fiancé Nick Denby), Jackson Denby and Benjamin Linke; David and Kalmia Linke and their family: Cara Linke (fiancé Brian Hudson). He is missed by devoted friends, Irene Bilek and Hank Bilek of Louisa.
A graveside service was held on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 in the Hillcrest Cemetery, in Louisa. Those who wish to remember Don are asked to consider a gift to the ASPCA of Richmond, VA.
Don was a wonderful man in many ways. Always quick with humor, sage advice and even quicker to lend a hand in whatever you needed. I am very fortunate to have known Don as a son-in-law and as a friend!