Nelladene "Nell" Ruth Poole

Nelladene Ruth “Nell” Poole, of Rives Junction, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on July 17, 2026, at the age of 63. She was born on October 12, 1962 in Elwood, IN to James and Naomi Brown.

Nell was the beloved wife of John Michael (“Mike”) Poole for 36 wonderful years and a loving “bonus mom” to Michelle (David) Lewis and John (Tina) Poole. Though she entered their lives as a stepmother, she never viewed them that way. From the moment she married Mike, they were simply her daughter and son, loved fiercely and without condition. She was a proud grandmother to Amanda, Madison, Kyle, Darian, and Jordan, who brought her great joy. Nell also had a special place in her heart for the many dogs she lovingly cared for throughout her life.

Alongside her husband, Nell helped build M&R Mechanical Services, supporting the family business with dedication and hard work. She found happiness in tending to her gardens, relaxing with her favorite reality television shows, and, above all, living out her deeply rooted Christian faith. She prayed with and for those she loved, welcomed everyone into her home, and never hesitated to help someone in need. Even when she had little, she found a way to give. Her home was a place where no one left empty-handed and where everyone left feeling cared for.

Nell will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, strength, and unwavering love. If she loved you, you were family, which perhaps was the greatest lesson that she has passed on to her loved ones. 

Aside from her husband and children, she is survived by her siblings, Randy (Carolyn) Brown, Steve (Jean) Brown, and Helen Will, along with many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death and welcomed into Heaven by her parents, James and Naomi Brown, and her brother, David.

She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

Final arrangements are pending, and she will be placed to rest alongside her parents in Tennessee in the coming weeks. 

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