Passing of Brother William Pool, Last Living Real Son of a Union Veteran

It is our solemn duty to announce the passing of Brother William Pool, recognized as the last living Real Son of a Union Veteran of the Civil War, who departed this life on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at the age of 101.

Brother William “Bill” Pool was born on January 13, 1925, to Charles and Clara Bell Pool. His father, Charles Pool, Sr., was born on March 27, 1844, in Ritchie County, West Virginia, and served the Union cause as a member of the 6th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry.

During his service, Charles was wounded in the left leg, resulting in an amputation above the knee, and later received an invalid pension from the federal government.

In 1915, at the age of 71, Charles married Clara Bell Straw, who was 27 years old. Together they raised five children, including William, known throughout his life as “Bill.”

Brother Pool’s family represented a remarkable living connection to the Civil War generation. His
mother, Clara Bell Pool, lived to the age of 101 and was the last Civil War widow in Missouri to
receive a pension based on her husband’s Union service.

Following in a tradition of service to the nation, Bill entered the United States Army in 1944 during
the Second World War. Serving in the European Theater, he distinguished himself through
extraordinary courage when he voluntarily joined another soldier in rescuing a severely wounded
officer from the battlefield after others believed the attempt too dangerous. For this act of heroism,
he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal.

After returning home from the war, Brother Pool married Shirley Courtney, and together they
raised nine children. He worked as a mechanic and later in the construction industry, earning a
reputation as a devoted husband, father, and provider. His family remembered him as a man of
unwavering faith, dedication, and work ethic who never missed a day of work and ensured his
family was in church every Sunday.

Brother Pool represented a direct and living connection to the men who preserved the Union during our nation’s greatest trial. With his passing, an historic chapter in the legacy of the Grand Army of the Republic and the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War comes to a close. His life served as a tangible link between the Civil War generation and the present day, reminding us of our sacred obligation to preserve the memory, history, and principles for which the Union soldiers fought.

The Commander-in-Chief, on behalf of the National Organization, extends heartfelt condolences
to Brother Pool’s family, friends, and all who mourn his loss.

The family has reported that funeral services are being planned at Pitts Chapel in Bolivar, Missouri,
with interment to follow at Enon Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery in Morrisville, Missouri.

Additional details will be shared as they become available.