Jesse Allen Poe, 84, passed away peacefully at his home in Troy on Sunday morning. Born on August 3, 1941, to Jesse and Oguerita Poe in Troy, MS, he grew up there and went on to graduate from Itawamba Community College and Delta State University. While in college, he met and married Doris Jackson Poe, and together they were blessed with two children. After earning his master’s degree in education, he pursued a teaching career at Randolph, Algoma, Thaxton, and South Pontotoc Schools. A lifelong member of Troy Baptist Church, he served as a deacon and Sunday School Director. He was part of the Fraternal Masonic Brotherhood for over 50 years, serving as Past Master, and a member of The Eastern Star since 1985, where he served as Past Patron along with other roles. He was also a charter member of the Troy Fire Department. Known affectionately as Papaw Bear, he and Momma Bear enjoyed traveling together after retirement.
He is survived by his son, Jesse Allen Poe Jr., his daughter, Sherry Lyn Shettles, and two granddaughters, Andrea Munn and Kat Shettles. He also leaves behind two brothers, Larry Poe (Sherrie) and Mike Poe.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Jackson Poe, and his parents, Jesse and Oguerita Poe.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 1 PM at Baldwin Memorial Funeral Home in Pontotoc, with Bro. Earl Barron officiating. Visitation will take place Tuesday evening from 5 to 7 PM and Wednesday from 12 PM until the service begins. Burial will follow at Troy Cemetery. Baldwin Memorial Funeral Home in Pontotoc is in charge of arrangements.
Pallbearers will be Matthew Poe, Tim Moss, Brad Horton, Joe Prater, Lonnie Earls, and John Ware.
