Alabama REALTORS® is saddened to learn of the passing of our friend Bill Poole. Bill served as President of the Alabama Association of REALTORS® (AAR) in 1990. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bill’s family during this time of loss.

Bill had an incredible real estate career in the Huntsville area during some of the early years of its growth. Bill also gave a great deal of his time to AAR and the real estate community. Bill’s theme during his year as AAR President in 1990 was “Above and Beyond” which he believed “reflects a purpose, a high calling.” “It expresses that to which each of us should aspire as individuals, as professionals and as an Association. The challenge to each of us, in 1990 and always, is to do more than what is expected.” 

Bill’s year as AAR President turned out to be one of great financial challenges where he and his leadership team helped steady the ship and set AAR on a more stable trajectory. Following his service at AAR, Bill served 12 years on the Alabama Real Estate Commission and led the Commission as Chairman for seven years. He also served as President of the Huntsville Association of REALTORS®. Bill was recognized as the 2008 Alabama REALTOR® of the Year in 2008 and was awarded the David D. Roberts Award in 1999.

 Bill was born in Elba, Alabama, attending Elba High School, where he was captain of the football team his senior year. Ten days after graduation, he joined the U.S Army. He attended Auburn University on the GI Bill, majoring in electrical engineering. After a career in aviation and missile systems that took him around the country, he was able to return to Alabama, accepting a position that brought him to Huntsville. He began his career in real estate in 1969 as a side interest, and in less than three years, obtained his broker’s license and opened his own commercial real estate company.  Bill Poole Realty remains the oldest agency in Huntsville. 

Bill was an avid pilot, golfer and all-around great guy. He was always an enthusiastic supporter of the Association and one of the first ones on the dance floor at Conferences! He always led with a kind word and offered positive support and encouragement to Association leaders who followed him. 

Bill left a strong and resilient legacy to his family, community, and his Association. He will be missed.