A local tennis coach in Roanoke, Carnis Poindexter, died last week. He passed away on 21st September 2022. He was a coach and instructor for many young African American players. He was beloved by many in Roanoke. The whole valley of Roanoke is mourning the death of this beloved tennis icon.
Carnis Poindexter Cause of death:
The specific details and cause of death for Carnis are unknown. However, it is assumed that he died of natural causes. The Poindexter family have not shared the reason behind Carnis’s death.
Carnis is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Vera Ruth Cornelious Poindexter, and his mother, Lillian G. Reese. He is survived by his son Clifton D. Poindexter, his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, friends and admirers.
Who was Carnis Poindexter?
Carnis was born on 27th August 1938. He was born to Lillian G. Reese in Virginia. He went to Gilmer Elementary School, Booker. He took up tennis in 1956. He was then studying at Addison High School. He won as many as 14 tournaments before he graduated from Arkansas AM and N. He was the winner of the first mixed-gender tennis match ever held in Roanoke.
From then, he also taught and coached at Patrick Henry High School until his retirement in 1996. His influence over African American players was huge. He was an inspiration for them all to follow in his footsteps. In 2018, authorities decided to rename tennis courts in Rivers Edge Sports Complex after his name to honor him.
Funeral Details of Carnis Poindexter:
The family has arranged for public viewing. Public viewing will be held on 29th September 2022, Thursday, from 1 pm to 5 pm. It will be held at Hamlar-Curtis Funeral Home and crematory.
Surprised local media is basically ignoring last week’s passing of Carnis Poindexter. We called him “Mr. P.” at Patrick Henry High, and he was an incredible teacher as well as a groundbreaking tennis player for African Americans in Roanoke. Come on, @roanoketimes and @WDBJ7.
— Sammy Oakey (@fabfourfan) September 28, 2022
On Friday, 30th September 2022, a lie celebration will be held at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, Roanoke. The family will receive friends and visitors before service. He will be incriminated in Williams Memorial Park.