Larry Gene Poore, 78, of Collinsville, IL, passed away on October 8, 2026. He was born on May 24, 1948, to the late Roland “RC” and Helen Poore.
A natural conversationalist, Larry spent much of his career as a bartender at the Missouri Athletic Club, where he had the opportunity to meet professional athletes from all three major St. Louis sports teams: the Rams, Blues, and Cardinals. His outgoing personality made him the kind of bartender who could keep a conversation going for hours, and he truly never met a stranger. A devoted sports fan, Larry especially enjoyed watching NFL games. Away from the crowds and conversation, he had a special place in his heart for the serenity of the great outdoors, where he enjoyed fishing and camping.
Above all, Larry cherished his family. He married the love of his life, Linda Poore (née Stanford), on September 12, 1973, in Caseyville, IL. Together, they made their home in Collinsville, where they shared over five decades of marriage, building a life grounded in love, hard work, and community.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, RC and Helen Poore; his daughter, Tammy Meyer; his son, Patrick Poore; and his siblings, Linda Teasdale, and Donald Poore.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his beloved wife of 53 years, Linda Poore; his children, Cindy Leezy, Pamela (Jeff) Williams, and Michael Poore; his grandchildren, Joshuah (Meagan) Williams, Matthew (Erin) Williams, Andrew (Alicia) Williams, Lindsey (Kyle) Schardan, Mindy (Jason) Holt, TJ Leezy, Tanya (David) Anderson, Tabitha (Steve) Meyer, Adam Meyer, Laura (Jonathan) LaRose, Dustin (Brittnie) Poore; and his great-grandchildren, Cody, Caleb, Hunter, Haylee, Emma, Jaxon, Theo, Zoie, Bella, Dillyn, Jewlyana, Zachary, Jason, Justin, Adalynn, Elliston, Soren, Serena, and Jaxon. He is also survived by his siblings, Joyce (Brian) Rogerson and Lynn Littlewood; his brother-in-law and dear friend, Kim Tucker; his sisters-in-law, Carol Massey and Dyan (Francisco) Coombs-Lopez; and his friends, Tom, Hawkeye, Justin, Aaron, and Alvin. Many other relatives, friends, and neighbors will fondly remember Larry and the unmistakable spiritedness he brought to their lives.
In honor of Larry, memorial contributions may be made to his wife, Linda Poore, to support her in the months ahead.
