Joe Nell Pough, Jr.

Joe Nell Pough, Jr. was born in Tattnall County, Georgia on January 4, 1943, the third of seventeen children born to Reverend Joe Nell Pough, Sr and Mrs. Henrietta Pough.  He was raised in Collins, Georgia and began school at Collins Elementary. He also attended Tattnall County Industrial High School in Reidsville, Georgia. At an early age, he accepted Christ and joined Mt. Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church in Collins.

Affectionately called “Brother” by his siblings, he was hardworking, ambitious and a continuous support for his parents and siblings.  Brother left home, at a young age, to find work in New York City.  He became a successful, skilled sheet metal mechanic and worked in the industry for nearly fifty years.   He was also a skilled musician and enjoyed singing and playing the guitar.  Although Joe Nell made his career in the city, he loved farming. He owned a farm, back in Georgia, which he named “The Ponderosa”.  Farming was always his lifelong dream.

In 1997, he joined Shaw Temple AME Zion Church, Amityville, NY, under the leadership of Reverend Dr. David I. Robinson and loving First Lady Sarah S. Robinson.  He was a faithful member, serving as the co-pastor’s steward, a member of the gospel choir, The Mighty Men of Shaw Choir and Class #2.

Joe Nell transitioned from this life on February 26, 2021 in Wyandanch, New York.  He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Daisley Pough and Alberta Pough.

He leaves to mourn his passing and cherish his memory: Josephine Marie Callahan, a special and devoted friend; one son, Robert Mayo(Nettie); one daughter, Patricia Liggon; seven sisters, Pearl Battle, Leona Bolden, Fadell Butler(Jerome), Gloria Johnson (Christopher), Viola Dawatole( Kayode), Carrie Mae Rodgers, Cassandra Butler(Marvin); eight brothers, Samuel Pough (Barbara), Nathaniel Pough, John E. Pough, John F. Pough, Cleotha Pough (Sinnie), Kermit Pough (Beulah), Cleveland Pough, Ronnie Pough(Sheila); nine grandchildren and eight great- grandchildren; two aunts, Pennie Ann Johnson and Eva Lee Collins; a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing will be enforced at the graveside services. We ask that you adhere to all CDC guidelines. 

The staff of Whitaker Funeral Home is honored serving the Pough family with Dignity, Honor and Respect. 

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