Keene, NH – It is with great sorrow that we announce the unexpected passing of Jeffrey David Pokines, 57, on October 18, 2020. Jeffrey was born on June 28, 1963, in Bennington, VT to Walter A. and Meryle (Minor) Pokines. Raised in Hoosick Falls, NY, he graduated from Hoosick Falls Central School in 1981.
A loyal Red Sox and Patriots fan, Jeffrey was also a very good artist, often displaying his work. He loved music and was quite accomplished with the mellophone. Jeffrey attended the School of Contemporary Radio, after which he worked as a DJ at radio stations in New York and Massachusetts.
Later in life Jeffrey graduated from Hudson Valley Community College, in Troy, NY, and then UMASS at Amherst, MA, earning his Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. While at UMASS Jeffrey played in the marching band at all the school’s games.
After a short stint working for the “Mr. Ding-A-Ling,” ice cream truck franchise, Jeffrey made the bold move to start his very own ice cream truck business in Keene, NH. He chose the name “Mr. Smarty Pants” and was a smashing success. Jeffrey was also in great demand as a substitute teacher for New Hampshire Schools. He was well known and beloved by all the area children and their parents, too.
Left to cherish his memory are, his mother, Meryle H. Pokines of Hoosick Falls, NY, his seven brothers and sisters: Walter (Patricia) Pokines, Jr., of Tipp City, OH, Karen (Rodney) LaFlamme of Eagle Bridge, NY, Jay Pokines of Hoosick Falls, NY, Kim (Gerald) Harrington of Hoosick Falls, NY, Kerry (Ruth) Pokines of Virginia Beach, VA, Karol (Steven) Fritz of New Bern, NC, James (Victoria) Pokines of Jamaica Plain, MA, also several nieces, nephews and cousins. Jeffrey is predeceased by his father, Walter Pokines Sr.
Calling hours were held for family and friends at the Mahar Funeral Home, on Sunday October 25. Memorial contributions may be made to the Second Chance Animal Shelter or the Shelter of your choice, through the funeral home.