Mary Ellen Poole

Mary Ellen Poole, a beloved resident of Williamstown, WV, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at the age of 84. She was born on June 20, 1942, in Parkersburg, WV, to the late Charles and Mary Frances Doxtater Byrd. Mary Ellen lived a life dedicated to her family, faith, and community.

Mary Ellen was a proud graduate of Parkersburg Catholic High School, class of 1960. She furthered her education at Parkersburg Community College, earning an Associate Applied Science Degree, and later obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Masters of Education in Guidance and Counseling from Ohio University. Her passion for helping others led her to a fulfilling career as a Registered Nurse at both Marietta Memorial and Selby General Hospitals, where she served with dedication until her retirement in 1997.

A devout member of the Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption in Marietta, Ohio, Mary Ellen was actively involved in her church community. She was a cherished member of the Catholic Woman’s Club and the K of C Ladies Auxiliary, where she formed lifelong friendships and contributed to numerous charitable endeavors. She will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her compassionate heart, and her dedication to her family and community. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mary Ellen is survived by her husband, Robert "Barney" Poole, whom she married on November, 18, 1976; her loving daughters, Susan Banks and her husband Robert, Molly Wilsbacher and her husband Tony, Sarah Delcoma and her husband David, Christine Murphy and her husband Barry, and Laura Stroup and her husband Scott. She also leaves behind two step-daughters, Brenda Lee and Rhonda Poole, fourteen grandchildren, and multiple great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother William F. Byrd, and an infant brother. Her legacy of love, kindness, and service will be cherished by all who knew her.

A Funeral Liturgy with Mass will be held at The Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption in Marietta, Ohio, on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. with the Very Rev. Edward Maxfield, Jr. with a graveside service to follow at New St. Mary's Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the MARIETTA CHAPEL OF CAWLEY & PEOPLES FUNERAL HOME on the same day.

Cawley & Peoples Funeral Home is honored to serve Mary Ellen's family and offers online condolences and resources at www.CawleyandPeoples.com or through their Facebook page.