Herbie Poole

Herbert Theadore "Herbie" Poole, Sr., 82, of Randleman, NC, died Friday, September 18, 2026, at The Randolph Hospice House in Asheboro.

A celebration of life will be held at 4:00 p.m., Friday, September 25, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, 908 Albemarle Road, Asheboro, NC, with Pastor Billy Myers officiating. Friends attending the service are invited to wear Herbie's racing colors, red or purple.

Herbie was born in Asheboro, NC, on March 31, 1944. He was a graduate of Brittain College and later attended the NC State Truck Driving School. Herbie worked for Hilco Transportation before spending many years with Holiday Tours, from where he eventually retired. His career behind the wheel reflected his dedication, skill, and commitment to the work he took pride in.

Being a professional NASCAR driver was more than a career for Herbie—it was a passion. He loved racing and dedicated 27 years to the sport. In that time, he earned the distinction of being an eight-time Late Model Stock Champion, 1 time modified champion, 246 time late model winner, and 168 pole positions. His Budweiser-sponsored vehicles competed on both dirt and asphalt tracks, where his skill and dedication earned him the respect of fellow racers and fans alike. Herbie’s accomplishments were recognized with being inducted into the Caraway Speedway Wall of Fame and the Mount Airy Speedway Wall of Fame, honors that reflect the lasting mark he made on the racing community. He was proud to have started with a $99 race car, to earning hundreds of victories.

Herbie was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Ann Powell Poole; parents, Clifford Poole and Virginia Hutson Poole; sisters, Debra Honea, Loretta Poole; brothers, David Poole, Charles Poole, and Marshall Presnell.

Survivors include his sons, Jason Poole of Randleman, Anthony Bennett (Kelly) of Asheboro; daughter, Kim Combs of Midway; sisters, Judith "Skipper" Newby (Bill) of Randleman, Hilda Latham of Asheboro; grandchildren, Anna-Kaye Poole, Jensen Poole, Kaya Butler, Dakota Combs, Cody Bennett (Megan), Tyler Bennett, Gracie Bennett, Dustin Bennett; three great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and caregivers, Lauren Williams, and Melinda Allred.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. on Friday at Ridge Funeral Home prior to the service, and again following the service at the home of his son, Anthony, 2383 Country Lane, Asheboro, NC 27205.

Memorials may be made to Archdale Assembly of God, 4405 Archdale, NC 27263.