Thomas Glen Pool

Thomas Glen Pool, known to many as Tom, passed away on August 8, 2024, at the age of 90. Tom was born on May 20, 1934, to Allen T. Pool and Edna Shetley Pool. He was a proud 1954 graduate of Claremore High School.

On August 22, 1954, Tom married the love of his life, Barbra Summers, in Chelsea, Oklahoma. He pursued higher education at Central State University in Edmond, with post-graduate studies at Western New Mexico University, Pepperdine in California, Northeastern State University, and Tulsa University.

Tom began his professional career as a teacher in 1962, dedicating 26.5 years to education as a teacher, coach, and principal until his retirement in 1988. His commitment to his community extended beyond education, as he served on the Claremore City Council for ten years and later as Mayor for nine years. During his term as Mayor which included all the duties of a city manager, Tom had visions for improvements that would further enhance the community of Claremore. While he was Mayor, the new library was built. This opened up the opportunity to use the building of the old library to become the Museum of History. Also, while he was Mayor the airport was added and the Rec Center and Expo Center. His favorite project was the development of a museum to promote the history of Claremore. He and his wife Barbra plus other original founders volunteered hours, travel, research and enthusiasm towards the beginning of the Claremore Museum of History. Tom took pride in his role as the first Chairman of the Claremore Museum of History.

In his leisure time, Tom enjoyed fishing, watching OU football and OU softball, and cheering on Claremore football games with his friends. He cherished the camaraderie of his daily coffee gatherings at McDonald's. Tom and Barbra shared a love for travel, especially in their RV, frequently meeting friends in Branson, Missouri for camping adventures.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Allen Pool and Edna Young. He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbra Pool; his daughter, Teresa Peters, and her husband, Rick Peters; his son, Allen Pool; his grandchildren, Kristyn Morris and her husband, Kyle, and Blaire Ford; and his great-grandchildren, Kolton Morris, Kyler Morris, Cayden Hopkins, Gabriel Peters, and great-great-grandsons Jamey Hopkins and Zayvier Hopkins.

Tom's legacy of service to his beloved Claremore, love for family, and joy in simple pleasures will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. 

A graveside service will be held at Oakhaven Cemetary Monday, August 12 at 2 P.M. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations be sent to the Claremore Museum of History or to First Baptist Church Claremore.