Eric Brian Poplin

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Eric Brian Poplin (E Pop), a cherished son, husband, father, brother, friend, and a remarkable human being that made a greater impact in his 46 years than most of us will in a lifetime. Eric's journey through life was a testament to the extraordinary impact one can have on those around them. He was born in Tulsa, OK to Melvin “Jack” Poplin and Mary Clayton Poplin, where he began his journey as a thoughtful and compassionate young man that his peers consistently looked to as a role model and confidante. Although he was reserved by nature and never sought attention or adoration, Eric represented the wisdom and grace that is rarely reserved for people of his youth of experience. After graduating from Owasso High School in 1995, Eric started his higher education at Bethany College in Lindsborg, Kansas, where he attended on a baseball scholarship before returning home to the University of Tulsa to complete his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. What started as an entry level job at Progressive Machine Tools in Tulsa, turned into a stellar career selling tooling to the metal cutting industry. According to his colleagues, Eric wasn’t just a salesman, but the consummate Ambassador for his company, his vendors, his faith, and his family. Eric found his greatest sense of happiness and purpose in his devoted wife Christin, who he married in front of friends and family in Owasso on October 20, 2007, and his 5 incredible children. Those who knew Eric well understood the profound moment his life changed both by finding Christin and the commitment they forged between each other and Jesus Christ. The bond and love they shared was evident with the passing of each year and the growth of the 5 precious humans that survive him. He was a man of faith and humility, who devoted his life to serving God and empowering the people in his life to be the best versions of themselves. To know Eric was to know grace, compassion and support that few people in this world are capable of providing in small doses, let alone as a way of life. Aside from his family and faith, there was nothing that Eric enjoyed more than following his beloved Oklahoma Sooners. Through thick and thin, Eric supported the Crimson and Cream with a purity and enthusiasm that even the Oklahoma State fans in his life could appreciate and respect. Above all, Eric was the ultimate servant to those around him and the caretaker of a family that will never be the same in his absence. He is survived by his loving wife, Christin; children: Kade Jackson, Ryan Avery, Beckham Lee, Drake Brian, and Brooks Rowan Poplin. His mother Mary, brother Lance Poplin and wife Jennifer, sister Carmen O’Brien and husband John. Nieces and nephews Austin O’Brien and Mason O’Brien. Emily Metcalf and husband Chris, Hannah Giboney, Jillian, Olivia, and Nathan Poplin. Mother-in-law Terri Cash and husband John, Father-in-law Marty Rowan and wife Claudette. Sister-in-law Heather Blake and husband Vince, sister-in-law Kayla Rowan, sister-in-law Hailey Avila and husband TJ, brother-in-law Derek Rowan and wife Carly, brother -in-law Dylan Rowan and wife Jenifer. Nieces and nephews Brendon Blake, Jaycee Blake, Kennady Blake,Westin Nelson, Tennessee Avila, Tripp Avila, and Noah Rowan. Aunt Earlene and cousins Kay McKinley, Ellen Bear, Julie Hurst, Clay Witt and Annica Gomez, and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and friends. Grief is the price we pay for love and we have paid the ultimate price with the passing of Eric. However, the opportunity to know and experience him in this life and the next, is reason enough to pay that price 100 times over. His impact was immeasurable and his legacy will inspire a generation of family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances to pursue a life of purpose and principle that will echo far beyond his time on this earth. Family and friends are welcome to attend a celebration of life, which will be held at Church on the Move on Thursday, October 26th at 11am. Graveside to follow at Graceland Cemetery.

Eric Brian Poplin

December 20, 1976 - October 17, 2023