Community Mourns Loss of Roger Poore, Beloved Family Man

Roger Poore, a cherished member of the community, passed away on November 14, 2025, at his home in Ross, California. Surrounded by family, he left behind his beloved wife, Anne O’Neal Poore, after 67 years of marriage, along with their children and grandchildren. Born in 1936 in Joanna, South Carolina, to Robert and Kathleen Butler Poore, Roger was the eldest of two children and is predeceased by his sister, Linda Poore Simpson.

Roger’s upbringing was marked by resilience. After his mother was hospitalized when he was five, he was primarily raised by his father. He attended grammar school in Joanna and went on to excel at Clinton High School, where he was elected Student Body President and participated in various extracurricular activities, including the band and yearbook committee.

His academic journey continued at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. There, he not only met Anne but also distinguished himself as a leader, serving again as Student Body President and earning accolades such as the 1958 Student of the Year. Following their marriage during the Christmas break of their senior year, Roger pursued a law degree at Duke University School of Law.

After graduating in 1961, he briefly practiced law in Atlanta before serving as a Captain in the Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps in San Francisco. Following his military service, Roger joined the Walkup Law Firm, where he eventually became a partner. He later established an independent practice focusing on arbitration and mediation.

Beyond his legal career, Roger was actively involved in local governance and community initiatives. He served as the mayor of Ross and spent eight years on the town council. His dedication to education was evident when the Ross School yearbook was dedicated to him during his presidency of the PTA, recognizing his efforts in community service and environmental initiatives.

Passions and Legacy

Roger was known for his warmth and friendliness, often greeting everyone with a smile and a hug. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, frequently taking his dog, Missy, for walks and engaging with neighbors. His interests included vintage cars, jazz and classical music, and playing golf. Family gatherings often featured Roger’s humorous storytelling, especially self-deprecating tales that brought laughter to the dinner table.

Travel was another passion for Roger and Anne, with the couple exploring various destinations and engaging in activities such as rafting, biking, and hiking. They shared many memorable trips, including hiking in Marin and the Sierra Nevada, where they had a family cabin at Kirkwood Lake.

A celebration of Roger’s life is scheduled for January 10, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo at 14:00, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank, reflecting his commitment to community service.

Roger Poore’s legacy as a devoted husband, father, and friend will be remembered by all who knew him. His life was a testament to love, laughter, and community engagement, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to be part of his journey.