William Joseph “Joe” Pounders, age 87 of Russellville, passed away on Monday, April 15, 2024 at his residence.
He was born in Russellville, Alabama on December 16, 1936, to Sid and Ruby Pounders. He graduated from Belgreen High School, class of 1957, where he played basketball for the Bulldogs. He married Shelby Jean Winstead on December 21, 1957, and they were married for 66-1/2 years.
Joe was a carpenter by trade and was a member of Carpenter Local 109. He worked on various construction jobs including the Pine Street Overpass, the Natchez Trace Bridge over the Tennessee River, as well numerous houses in the Russellville area.
Joe then went to work at U.S. Reduction Company where he worked in production and maintenance for 25 years until the plant closed in the mid 80’s. Joe then went to work at Amos Lumber Company for 10 years until a bout with cancer that forced him to retire. Being a strong willed and God trusting man, he overcame this obstacle and lived 27 more years.
Joe had a strong work ethic and a stronger belief and faith in God. He was a good neighbor and friend, often helping people in need behind the scenes not wishing for praise or attention.
He was a faithful husband and a hard-working father, who always managed to provide for his family. He was loved and will be missed greatly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sid and Ruby (Malone) Pounders; siblings, Agnes Lou Lindsey, Mae Lee Pounders, Ray Wilson Pounders; father and mother-in-law, George and Mary Winstead; sisters-in-law, Lois Burns, Louise Kimbrough, JoNell Wilson and brother-in-law, George D. Winstead.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 66 years, Jean Winstead Pounders; children, Steve Pounders (Kathy), Cindy Mashburn (Tommy); grandchildren, Jessica Smith, Andrea Mashburn, Ginger Hill, Sam Barton; great-grandchildren, Austen Baker, Lucas Hill, Kiera Smith, Ella Cochran, Halli Cochran; cousins, Max Todd and Major Pounders; sisters-in-law, Judy West, Jerline Bolton (Wayne), brother-in-law, Willie Lindsey; and several nieces and nephews.
The visitation was 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at Spry Memorial Chapel. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at Spry Memorial Chapel with Bro. Philip Goad officiating the service. The burial will be in Franklin Memory Gardens. The pallbearers will be Alan Wilson, Doug Clement, Tim Turner, Dusty West, Austen Baker, and Max Todd.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you consider making a donation to North Highlands Church of Christ, Lad to Leaders Program, P.O. Drawer H, Russellville, AL 35653.
Spry Memorial Chapel assisted the family. To have us sign the book for you, please free to call or to leave private condolences, please visit our website at www.sprymemorialchapel.com.
