William Board

William “Pookie” Board, 75, of Elyria, OH was called home while in Margaret Morris Center of Care Hospice House in Jacksonville, Florida on Sunday November 27, 2022 following exacerbation of chronic illness.  Pookie was born in Elyria, Ohio on September 7, 1947 to Russell Board and Betty Francis. 

Pookie spent his life as an Elyria native graduating from Elyria High School in 1967. While in school, he was a phenomenal baseball player and earned special recognition/awards for his talent.  After high school, William enlisted into the United States Marine Corps and served honorably in the Vietnam War from 1967-1975.

After honorably serving his country, Pookie returned to Elyria for several years and worked as a security guard before moving to Meadville Pennsylvania for a few years.  He also lived in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and most recently in Jacksonville, Florida.  To know Pookie, was to love him; His favorite saying “It is what it is” and “You Know”, will always ring in the ears of those who knew and loved him. He enjoyed his leisure time, watching movies and reminiscing about the past. He had an affinity for dogs and has cared for and loved several over the years. 

Pookie leaves to cherish his memory, Barbara Graves; siblings, Sallie Rowe, Wylie McDowell and Allen Hull; children, Leonis Board Sr., Michelle Lee, Dr. Suziliene (Salena) Board, Meyanta Board-Sambolah (Foday Sambolah); stepson, Anthony Graves (Keisha Graves); 15 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and a loving host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  Pookie especially appreciated his relationship with his niece, Arrianna Williams-Horton and cousin, Rosalyn Fluker, who affectionately referred to him as uncle.

Pookie was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Francis; father, Russell Board; stepfather, Alfred McDowell; and brother, Alfred McDowell, Jr.

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Southside is serving the Family.

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