by Kandiss Edwards
September 6, 2025
Dr. Booker T. Poe was one of many Atlanta’s first Black pediatricians.
Atlanta is paying tribute to a trailblazer in group well being. Dr. Booker T. Poe, one of many metropolis’s first Black pediatricians, handed away on Aug. 31.
Poe was 89-years-old on the time of his passing. After six a long time of caring for generations of youngsters. His legacy earned a heat remembrance from Metropolis Council members and fellow medical doctors alike.
Atlanta Metropolis Council member Andrea L. Boone referred to as Dr. Poe “part of our household,” praising his a long time of service.
“For over six a long time, he served generations of households in Atlanta, changing into a cornerstone for well being locally and a voice for well being fairness and social justice throughout Atlanta and past. His steering, advocacy, and love formed our youngsters’s lives in methods we’ll always remember,” stated Boone.
Council member Michael Julian Bond added that Poe went past medical care, serving to enhance immunization entry for underserved sufferers and even influencing pediatric seatbelt legal guidelines—a legacy of compassion and advocacy.
. William “Invoice” Cleveland, Poe’s longtime good friend and colleague, mirrored on a profession that spanned not simply pediatrics however mentorship and group transformation.
“He was greater than a doctor,” Cleveland stated, “he was a mentor, advisor, and steadfast supporter of younger medical doctors. His presence on Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive within the Nineteen Sixties marked a turning level for accessible healthcare in our metropolis.”
Dr. Poe’s journey started when he earned his medical diploma and arrange follow in Atlanta at a time when Black pediatricians had been uncommon. For greater than 60 years, he served kids throughout the town, from tightly knit neighborhoods and susceptible communities, he usually staying past the clinic hours to verify no youngster went with out care.
His passing is a profound loss for the town. Dr. Poe is remembered not only for medical ability, however for heat, mentorship and a deep perception in justice.
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