Atlanta, GA, September 4, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta is in mourning following the passing of Dr. Booker T. Poe, one of the city’s first Black pediatricians. At 89, his impactful career spanned over six decades, advocating for children’s health and health equity. Colleagues and community members honor his legacy as a staunch advocate for social justice and a pioneer in pediatric care.
Atlanta is mourning the loss of Dr. Booker T. Poe, who passed away on August 31 at the age of 89. Dr. Poe was lauded as one of the city’s first Black pediatricians, making significant contributions to the local medical community over the span of six decades.
His dedication to public health and community welfare earned him recognition as a “passionate community advocate” among city council members. Dr. Poe had a lasting impact on generations of families throughout Atlanta, shaping children’s lives through his guidance and advocacy for health equity and social justice.
City Council member Andrea Boone emphasized that Dr. Poe served countless families in the area, highlighting his role as a cornerstone of health within the community. His work directly contributed to establishing access to preventative health measures and immunizations for Medicaid recipients in Georgia. Furthermore, he was instrumental in passing the pediatric seatbelt law, demonstrating his commitment to child safety.
Colleague Dr. William “Bill” Cleveland referred to Dr. Poe as a “true giant” in the field. He emphasized that Dr. Poe’s life and legacy exemplify excellence, equity, and service. His approach towards patient care was characterized by a blend of firmness and compassion, providing children with both discipline and understanding.
Dr. Poe’s Early Work
In the 1960s, Dr. Poe opened his pediatric practice on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, at a time when access to quality healthcare for Black families was severely limited. His practice was not only a medical facility but also a community hub where he fostered trust and support amongst his patients and their families.
Community Impact
Dr. Poe’s influence extended beyond medical care. Various community members have remembered him for his generosity, wisdom, and kindness. He used his platform to advocate for the health needs of children, ensuring that their voices were heard in the broader public discourse on health equity. His efforts played a critical role in addressing and advocating for health disparities affecting underprivileged communities in Atlanta.
Though he has passed, Dr. Poe’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of healthcare professionals. His commitment to ethical medical practice and community service sets a high standard for pediatric care and advocacy in Atlanta and beyond.
Conclusion
As Atlanta reflects on Dr. Poe’s remarkable life and career, it becomes evident that his impact on the community will be felt for years to come. His unwavering dedication to children’s health and advocacy for social justice serve as a guiding force for current and future healthcare practitioners.
FAQ
What was Dr. Booker T. Poe known for?
Dr. Poe was known as one of Atlanta’s first Black pediatricians and a passionate community advocate for health equity and social justice.
When did Dr. Poe pass away?
Dr. Booker T. Poe passed away on August 31 at the age of 89.
What contributions did Dr. Poe make to the community?
He established access to preventative health care and immunizations for Medicaid in Georgia and played a role in passing the pediatric seatbelt law.
How long was Dr. Poe active in the medical community?
Dr. Poe was active in the Atlanta medical community for over six decades.
What type of care did Dr. Poe provide?
Dr. Poe was known for providing compassionate yet firm care, making a significant impact on the lives of children and their families.
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Additional Resources
- 11Alive: Atlanta Honors Dr. Booker T. Poe
- Wikipedia: Health Equity
- Legacy: Louis Reese Obituary
- Google Search: Dr. Booker T. Poe
- Patch: Providence Baptist Associate Minister Found Fatally
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Health
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
