Notable Obituaries

John Poole

John Poole

1937–2024

John Poole, professor emeritus of Mathematics, passed away on Aug. 3, 2024.

Poole earned his undergraduate degree at the University of North Carolina and later pursued his master’s and Ph.D. at the University of Maryland. After teaching briefly at Florida State University and Clemson University, Poole joined Furman’s faculty in 1969.

During his 43-year tenure at Furman, Poole was held in high regard by colleagues and students. He was known for his effectiveness, preparation and dedication. Insisting on high-quality effort and hard work, his passion inspired his students.

Poole took piano lessons, audited Spanish courses and created a well-regarded website that presents the first four books of “Euclid’s Elements” in a reader-friendly format.

Poole enjoyed running and hiking with his colleagues and was an accomplished and enthusiastic cyclist. He also enjoyed many travels with his family. Poole actively supported the Department of Theatre Arts at Furman, as a faithful audience member and generous donor.

Carolyn Watson

Carolyn Watson
1951–2024

Carolyn Watson, professor emerita of Art History, passed away on Oct. 21, 2024.

Watson earned her undergraduate degree and her master’s and Ph.D. in art history at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She joined Furman’s faculty in 1989.

During her 31 years at Furman, Watson was an invested, caring colleague and community member. She served thoughtfully and impactfully as Art Department chair, led art faculty searches, contributed to numerous committees and advocated for student, faculty and staff concerns.

Watson also was a prolific writer and authored two books: “The Egerton Genesis” (co-authored with Mary Joslin) and “The Winter Missal of Arnold of Rummen.” She also published a novel, “Circle of Heroes.”

Richard Schosky

Rick Schosky
1964–2024

Rick Schosky, director of Facilities, passed away on Dec. 30, 2024.

Schosky left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him during his nearly 20 years at Furman. He epitomized dedication, compassion and excellence. His contributions to the campus community were particularly profound during the COVID-19 pandemic. He went above and beyond to ensure the well-being of colleagues, students and the broader community and often said, “We’ll get through this together.” And he meant it.

A steadfast professional with an uncanny ability to bring people together, Schosky found solutions where others saw obstacles and infused every challenge with a sense of purpose.

He was a cherished friend and confidant. Schosky’s kindness, humor and unwavering positivity lifted spirits and reminded us of the power of human connection. He leaves behind a community of colleagues who admired him deeply and a legacy of service that will continue to inspire us.

Savita Nair

Savita Nair
1967–2024

Savita Nair, Gordon Poteat Professor Emerita of History and Asian Studies, passed away on Nov. 1, 2024.

Nair completed her undergraduate degree at Carnegie Mellon University and pursued her master’s and Ph.D. at the University of Pennsylvania. After teaching at the University of Pennsylvania and Mount Holyoke College, she joined Furman’s faculty in 2003.

Her 21-year tenure at Furman included many impactful contributions and service. She was known as a highly engaged, committed department member both in History and Asian Studies. She helped lead faculty searches and served as a generous mentor to new faculty members. Nair was a respected, thoughtful colleague, a caring friend, and an active member of the Furman community.

Stasi Hester
2003–2025

Stasi Hester ’25 passed away on January 26, 2025, at the age of 21.

Hester was born on March 13, 2003, in Greenville, South Carolina, to Jon and Candace Ellstrom Hester. She was a senior at Furman University, majoring in politics and international affairs with a minor in data analytics. She was on track to graduate with honors in May. Her curiosity about the world around her was well known, and her desire to learn and grow inspired those around her.

Stasi loved life’s simple pleasures – whether it was playing computer games, riding roller coasters, spending time with her beloved cats or having deep conversations with those she cherished. She was known for her caring nature and the warmth she brought to each interaction. She embodied love and acceptance, making those around her feel valued and understood.