Resident Spotlight: Bill Poage
For The Harbor at Hickory Hill resident Bill Poage, life has always been about teamwork—on the field, in service, and in faith.
Bill was born in the small town of Coosada, Alabama, and spent his early childhood there before his family moved to Montgomery when he was in second grade. After graduating from high school, Bill answered the call to serve and joined the Army. He rose to the rank of Sergeant First Class and found himself stationed in Trieste, Italy, where he and his men took on an unexpected mission: manufacturing American uniforms for the troops.
It didn’t take long for Bill’s fellow soldiers to learn about his love for baseball. Before long, they were forming teams and playing games every Saturday—bringing a taste of home and camaraderie to the far side of the world. Bill fondly remembers the day members of the Grand Ole Opry, including country music legend Roy Acuff, came to Italy to perform for the troops. It’s a memory that brought joy to the whole unit and has always stuck with him.
After completing his military service, Bill returned to Alabama and put his entrepreneurial spirit to work by opening Poage Office Supplies. He ran the store with the same sense of dedication and leadership that had guided him in the Army.
Faith has always been central in Bill’s life. He joined his church in building a new congregation out in Utah, where he witnessed several young boys accept Christ—a moment that touched him deeply and reminded him of the power of community and service.
Bill’s family means everything to him. He’s the proud father of three sons and a daughter, and his wife, Margaret, has been a devoted partner in this chapter of his life. Together, they celebrate a big, loving family with nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Bill’s love of baseball never faded; he continued playing in a senior adult league for many years, passing on his passion for the game to younger generations.
From the ballfields of Italy to church pews in Alabama and Utah, Bill Poage’s life has been a testament to friendship, faith, and the joy found in coming together—whether as a team, a family, or a community.
