Virgil M. Poole Sr.

Born December 10, 1920 in Birmingham, Alabama, Virgil M. Poole, was the fourth born child to the union of Joseph and Mary Poole. Young Virgil’s parents stressed belief in God, education and self reliance. He confessed Christ at a young age and was a member of Berean Baptist Church. His mother read him the scripture Psalms 19:14 “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Jehovah, my rock and my redeemer.” This was one of his favorite Bible verses. His education included attending Roosevelt University and the University of Chicago. Virgil was a member of The Phi Beta Kappa Society. He joined the United States Army and served in World War II as one of the Tuskegee Airman. He was a member of the DODO Chapter. Upon returning home he joined the Veteran of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 311 and the American Legion. He was proud to have served his country and was active in service related causes. Virgil married Barbara Gushiniere and to that union one son was born, Virgil M. Poole Jr. Upon separating from the service, Virgil went to work for the Chicago Park District and later became a member of the Chicago Police Department. He was the “Chief of Security” for the Chicago Housing Authority. Virgil married Haweda Irving, known to him as “Weda”, and became step father to Carleda and Stephanie. Even with all his accomplishments, one of his proudest moments was being a husband and father. His interest in others led him to start the Illinois Law Enforcement School and Security Unlimited Enterprises, Inc., where he served as President and CEO. He provided security for the National Football League (NFL). Unrelenting, Virgil still wasn’t finished. He became the Chief of Police in Harvey, Illinois and ended his illustrious career as an Investigator for the Cook County Medical Examiner. On August 29, 2018, Virgil M. Poole Sr. rested from his labors. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Mary Poole and three siblings Joseph Jr., Emma and Julian. Virgil leaves to cherish his memories, his loving wife Haweda; one son Virgil M.Poole Jr.; two step daughters Carleda (James) and Stephanie (Shortie); two nieces Marilyn (John Richard) and Janice; a cousin Charlene (Tommie) and Tommie’s daughter Joyce; four grandchildren, five great grandchildren and a host of family and close friends.

Tributes

Virgil M. Poole Sr.

December 10, 1920 - August 29, 2018