Erthel Leon Popplewell, 83, passed from this life on Monday, September 30, 2024 with his loving family by his side. He was born in Russell Springs, KY on March 3, 1941, the beloved son of the late Rev. Henry and Edna Popplewell of Russell County, KY. 

Through his parents, he learned the importance of hard work, value of love, kindness, respect for and of others. At an early age, Erthel became an excellent basketball player. After High School and College basketball, he left a teaching legacy of being “Mr. Pop” at Creston Jr. High School in Indianapolis, Indiana for 31 years. Erthel was respected and loved by his students and faculty so that in his honor while coaching, the gymnasium was named Erthel Popplewell. In addition to his love for basketball, he enjoyed music, playing the guitar, fishing and going with family on vacations to fish. Erthel always loved a good joke and the surprises he would get when family played pranks on him. He always wanted to maintain the value of keeping his house in order, never anything misplaced. He persevered to keep his lawn cut and everything trimmed to his perfection. 

SURVIVORS:

2 sisters: Rosie Zimmerman of Norwood, Ohio and Juanita Foley (Steve) of Columbia, KY

2 brothers: J.C. Popplewell (Melinda) of McKenzie, TN and Clifton Popplewell (Jenny) of Cadiz, KY

Sister-in-law: Betty Popplewell

Several nieces, nephews and great-nieces & nephews

Many dear friends

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Addielen Dunbar (and Jack); one brother, Marshall Popplewell; and one brother-in-law, Avalynn Zimmerman.

Graveside Service: Friday, October 4, 2024 at 1:00pmCT at Pine Grove Cemetery in Eli, KY with his brother, J.C. Popplewell officiating

Pallbearers: Trent Zimmerman, Clint Zimmerman, Travis Foley, Jason Popplewell, Robin Popplewell, and Daniel Hadley

In lieu of flowers, the family request contributions be made to the Pine Grove Cemetery in Eli, Russell Springs, KY, c/o Garnett McBeath, 5540 S. Hwy 76, Russell Springs, KY 42642.

Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Bernard Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.bernardfuneralhome.com.