William "Bill" Martyn Poe

William “Bill” Martyn Poe, 88, passed away on October 21, 2026, at Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC.

Bill was born on March 6, 1938, in Winston-Salem, NC, to Henry Martyn and Mary Edna Ervin Poe. Bill graduated from Duke University with his degree in mechanical engineering. During college, he joined the ROTC program at Duke University and served his country in the Air Force for three years after graduation. After his honorable discharge from the Air Force, he was employed by Hoffman and Hoffman, where he retired after 52 years of service.

In retirement, Bill spent a lot of time at the golf course. He worked as a part-time starter at Old Home Place Golf Course in Winston-Salem. He was an athlete throughout his life, through running, bicycling, and golfing. He was a lifelong supporter of Duke athletics.

Bill was a member of many different Presbyterian churches, including Starmount Presbyterian Church, Sedgefield Presbyterian Church, where he sang in the choir, and most recently First Presbyterian Church of Kernersville.

Most importantly, Bill was a beloved father and husband. He was loved by all who knew him, and he loved them, too.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife, Rachel Poe; children, Elizabeth Ann Poe (Brett Morestad), Lloyd David LaVack, Margaret Pauline Poe, and Elizabeth LaVack Miller (Ryan); eight grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church of Kernersville, 611 Oakhurst St, Kernersville, NC 27284, officiated by Rev. John Pruitt. A reception will follow the service for friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Kernersville, 611 Oakhurst St, Kernersville, NC 27284, or Samaritan’s Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.

Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel is respectfully serving the family.