Roger Poore, a cherished community leader and dedicated family man, passed away at the age of 89 on November 14, 2025. He died peacefully at his home in Ross, California, surrounded by his family. Born in 1936 in Joanna, South Carolina, to Robert and Kathleen Butler Poore, he was the eldest of two children. He is predeceased by his sister, Linda Poore Simpson.
Roger is survived by his wife of 67 years, Anne O’Neal Poore, their children Jack, Kathy, Allan, and Scott, as well as son-in-law Mario Cisneros. He also leaves behind an extensive family of grandchildren: Natalie, Nicholas, Natasha, Hayden, Davis, Skylar, Harrison, and Analise.
Early Life and Education
Raised primarily by his father after his mother was hospitalized when he was five, Roger attended grammar school in Joanna and later high school in nearby Clinton. There, he excelled academically and socially, serving as Student Body President, participating in the Boys State mock government program, and playing trumpet in the school band. He worked various jobs as a teenager, including delivering newspapers and groceries, and gained experience at the Joanna Mill.
His academic journey continued at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he met Anne. Roger’s leadership qualities emerged as he was elected Student Body President, participated as a cheerleader, and was a member of the debate team. He earned the title of Student of the Year in 1958, achieved the rank of Cadet Colonel in ROTC, and received an award from The Daughters of the American Revolution. He and Anne married during their senior year, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership.
After graduating, they relocated to the Durham area, where Roger attended Duke University School of Law. While Roger pursued his legal studies, Anne supported the family by teaching school. He earned his law degree in 1961 and briefly practiced in Atlanta before serving as a Captain in the Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps in San Francisco.
A Lasting Legacy in Law and Community Service
Following his military service, Roger joined the Walkup Law Firm, where he became a partner. He later established his independent practice in San Francisco before moving to San Rafael, focusing on arbitration and mediation. His commitment to the community extended beyond his legal work; he served as the mayor of Ross and was a member of the town council for eight years.
Roger’s dedication to education was reflected in his role as president of the Ross School PTA, during which the school yearbook was dedicated to him for his community service. He also contributed to the boards of Marin Academy and the Marin County Juvenile Justice Commission. His involvement in local organizations included membership in the San Anselmo Presbyterian Church and the Rotary Club.
Known for his kindness and warm demeanor, Roger was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and dog owner. His friendly nature and ready smile endeared him to many in the community. He enjoyed taking long walks with his dog, Missy, and engaging in conversations with everyone he met.
Roger had a passion for vintage cars, jazz and classical music, and golf. He cherished time spent with his grandchildren, especially playing with his electric train collection. Family gatherings were filled with laughter, as he often shared humorous anecdotes from his past, bringing joy to those around him.
Travel was a significant part of Roger and Anne’s life together, as they explored various destinations with family and friends. They enjoyed rafting, biking, and hiking trips, creating lasting memories. Roger also loved hiking in Marin and took pride in the family cabin at Kirkwood Lake in the Sierra.
A celebration of Roger’s life will take place at the First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo on January 10, 2025, at 14:00, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank, PO Box 7203, San Francisco, CA 94120-7203.
Roger Poore’s legacy of love, laughter, and community service will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
