If you are reading this, then I, William Ernest Poe have become a pile of ashes. I was born on Oct. 9, 1936, in Indianola, MS. I had hoped my 3 siblings would outlive me, but sadly my older brother Glenn died in June. There are two sisters: Pat Poe Tilley (husband Vic) of Gulfport, MS, and Martha Poe Mitcham (husband Wilson) of Roswell, GA. Brother Glenn Edward Poe (wife Linda) of Amory, MS. Our parents were Thomas Glenn and Itell Phillips Poe from Indianola.

Many of my doctors were surprised by my living this long after becoming a type 1 diabetic in 1949 and developing rheumatoid arthritis in 1985. I attribute mylongevity to having loving family members, good genes, a few very close friends, a lot of laughing, and beer. I hope that the temperature where I am now supports cool drinks.

I came to MS State College in 1955 and graduated from MS State University in 1959 and 1963 with degrees in chemical engineering and chemistry. I retired from MSU's Biochemistry Department in 1989. After rheumatoid arthritis problems caused me to have both my knees and hips replaced, I had the urge to travel. I refused to let health problems slow me down.

My life living in a college-town was close to perfect. Working at MSU gave me time to enjoy my passions of hunting and fishing with plenty of time to enjoy campus events.

We lost our parents in a tragic accident in 1970. This brought our close family even closer, often traveling together after my retirement…..top places being China, Peru, Egypt, Australia, New Zealand, the Serengeti in Tanzania, and Europe. My life’s cup was running over.

You're probably wondering where my departing events will take place. I want an hour's visitation at Welch's Funeral Home, on November 12, 2016 from 1:00-2:00, followed by a trip to the Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum pavilion at 206 Fellowship St. for a Celebration of Life where half my ashes will be spread on top of the green roof pavilion. Several people are anxious to do this. Being elevated on the pavilion, my spirit should hover above those spirits across the street at Odd-fellows Cemetery. The other half will be spread at the Indianola Cemetery at a grave-site next to my parents. These could be called “half ash” events. The party will continue at my house at 904 Cotton Row in the Cotton District where my bucket will be filled to the top. If needed, bring a designated driver.

If a minister can be found that promises to say only good things about me, there will be a short sermon at the Welch's chapel following the visitation. If this happens, you may want to skip the other events, unless you were a very good friend, have nothing better to do, or you think you might be in my will. Having 4 events for one funeral is ridiculous, but this gives you a chance to pick and choose. The last two will be the most fun, as that’s where the action will be.

If you would like to make a donation in my honor, I’d suggest a donation to the Friends of the Oktibbeha Heritage Museum.. I've already given. Better than that, become a Friends member. After I stopped hunting and fishing, I spent much time on the Museum’s board. No flowers, please. I’ve already enjoyed more than I deserve.