Roger Poore, a respected lawyer and devoted family man, passed away on November 14, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at his home in Ross, California. He was 89 years old. Born in 1936 in Joanna, South Carolina, to Robert and Kathleen Butler Poore, Roger was the eldest of two children, predeceased by his sister, Linda Poore Simpson.
Roger is survived by his wife, Anne O’Neal Poore, with whom he shared a deep bond for 67 years, and their four children: Jack, Kathy, Allan, and Scott. He also leaves behind a loving family, including his son-in-law, Mario Cisneros, and numerous grandchildren: Natalie, Nicholas, Natasha, Hayden, Davis, Skylar, Harrison, and Analise.
Early Life and Education
Raised primarily by his father after his mother fell ill when he was five, Roger attended grammar school in Joanna. He later excelled at Clinton High School, where he served as Student Body President, participated in the Boys State mock government program, and played trumpet in the school band. His early work experience included delivering newspapers and groceries, as well as working at the Joanna Mill.
Roger received a scholarship to Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he met Anne. During his time there, he became Student Body President, a cheerleader, and a member of the debate team. He was also named Student of the Year in 1958 and achieved the rank of Cadet Colonel in ROTC. Roger and Anne married during their senior year over the Christmas break.
After graduating, the couple relocated to the Durham area, where Roger attended Duke University School of Law. While studying, he worked at the medical school caring for lab mice, while Anne taught school to support his tuition.
A Distinguished Career
Upon earning his law degree in 1961, Roger briefly practiced in Atlanta before serving in the Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps as a Captain at Fort Mason and the Presidio in San Francisco. Following his military service, he joined the Walkup Law Firm, eventually becoming a partner. Roger later established an independent practice in San Francisco, focusing on arbitration and mediation.
His commitment to community service was evident throughout his career. Roger served as mayor of Ross and was a member of the town council for eight years. His dedication to education was recognized when the Ross School yearbook was dedicated to him during his presidency of the Ross School PTA for his efforts in community service, including the replanting of the Ross Common.
Roger also contributed to various organizations, serving on the boards of Marin Academy and the Marin County Juvenile Justice Commission. He was an active member of the San Anselmo Presbyterian Church, the Rotary Club, and several legal organizations.
Roger was known for his warmth and friendliness, making friends easily and greeting everyone with a smile. He cherished his role as a husband, father, grandfather, and dog owner. He enjoyed taking long walks with his beloved dog, Missy, and was known for engaging in conversations with everyone he encountered.
Legacy and Celebration of Life
Roger’s passions extended to vintage cars, jazz and classical music, golf, and sharing his electric train collection with his grandchildren. He was known for his sense of humor, often entertaining family and friends with amusing stories from his past.
Traveling with family and friends was a significant part of Roger’s life. He enjoyed rafting, biking, and hiking adventures, as well as exploring the world with Anne. The couple also shared fond memories of hiking in Marin and at their family cabin in Kirkwood Lake.
A celebration of Roger’s life is scheduled for January 10, 2025, at 14:00 at the First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, located at 72 Kensington Road, with a reception following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Roger’s name to the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank, PO Box 7203, San Francisco, CA 94120-7203.
Roger Poore’s legacy as a devoted family man, respected lawyer, and active community member will be remembered and cherished by those who knew him.
