Melvin M. Poole Sr., age 85, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on December 4, 1940, in Ullin, Illinois, Melvin was the beloved son of the late Ed and Dora (Helton) Poole.
A proud veteran, Melvin honorably served his country in the United States Air Force. On March 29, 1963, he married Carolyn “Carol” D. Brinker in Granite City, beginning a beautiful marriage that would span more than six decades. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and devotion.
Melvin was a faithful member of Grace Baptist Church in Granite City. He dedicated 30 years of hard work as an iron worker at Spectralite before retiring. Outside of work, Melvin embraced life’s simple pleasures. He loved the outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing, or exploring with his metal detector. He had a passion for lapidary work and coin collecting, and he took great pride in maintaining a perfectly kept lawn.
Above all else, Melvin cherished time spent with his family. His love, wisdom, and steady presence will remain a lasting legacy to those who knew him best.
In addition to his parents, Melvin was preceded in death by his siblings: Lucille Hammond, Charles Lamb, James “Junior” Lamb, Lawrence “Dean” Lamb, George “Bud” Lamb, JoAnne Clutts, Marie Gross, and Dora “Pat” Orasco.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Carol Poole of Granite City; his loving children, Melvin M. (Suzette) Poole Jr. of Mountain Home, Idaho, Preston (Tammy) Pannelle of Wichita, Kansas, and Tonya (Eric) Stille of Granite City, Illinois; and his treasured grandchildren, Christinia (Charles) Burgess, Michael Poole, Andrew Stille, Matthew Stille, Erica Stille, Preston Pannelle, Justin Pannelle, Chelsea Pannelle, and Natasha Pannelle. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Genevieve Burgess, Aiden Poole and Damian Poole. Melvin will also be fondly remembered by many dear nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends whose lives he touched.
A celebration of Melvin’s life will be held with visitation from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Irwin Chapel in Granite City, Illinois. Funeral services will follow at 7:00 p.m., with Pastor Daniel Wilson officiating.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Hospice of Southern Illinois. Contributions will be accepted at the funeral home.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.
