Brian “Kelly” Poe Dies Peacefully at Eugene Home at 60; Community Mourns Local Business Owner, Professional Drywaller, and Devoted Father

The community of Eugene, Missouri, is mourning the loss of a longtime local figure and business owner following the death of Brian “Kelly” Poe, who passed away peacefully at his residence on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. Poe was 60 years old at the time of his passing.

Born on October 27, 1965, in Sedalia, Missouri, he was the son of Robert E. Poe and Clara (Carver) Poe. Over the course of six decades, Poe built a life anchored in hard work, local entrepreneurship, and close connections with family and neighbors across mid-Missouri.

Known affectionately as Kelly to friends, family, and patrons throughout the region, he established himself professionally as a skilled tradesman and independent business owner. For many years, he operated as a professional drywaller and ran Poe Drywall, providing trade craftsmanship on numerous residential and commercial projects in central Missouri. Beyond his work in the building trades, Poe was also widely known as an area proprietor, owning and operating Poe’s Place with locations spanning Eugene, Iberia, and Eldon. His presence in these establishments made him a familiar figure in the everyday civic and commercial life of Miller County and surrounding communities.

Outside of his commercial endeavors, Poe was known by those close to him as someone who enjoyed simple pleasures and hands-on hobbies. He spent much of his free time fishing, cooking, and using his carpentry background to build and repair projects at home. He was also an avid animal lover who cared deeply for his pet Shih Tzu dogs and held a particular affection for his beloved cat, Boozer. Family members recall his strong work ethic alongside his steady dedication to supporting those around him.

Regarding his passing on August 26, official reports confirm that Poe died at his home in Eugene. A specific medical cause of death has not been publicly released by authorities or representatives of the family.

Poe was preceded in death by his father, Robert E. Poe; his stepfather, Clifford Johns; his sister, Brenda Hawkins; and his nephew, Daniel Hawkins.

He is survived by a broad circle of family members, including his mother, Clara Johns of Versailles; his three children, Kelsi McClure and her husband Doug of Jefferson City, Kasey Poe of Eugene, and Hannah Poe of Jefferson City; and two grandchildren, Aiden Smith and Avah Poe. He also leaves behind his brother, James Poe and his wife Rebecca of Holts Summit; his sister, Vickie Poe of Rocheport; his cat, Boozer; and numerous extended family members, former customers, and friends across the region.

Arrangements for memorial services have been finalized by the family. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 31, 2026, at the Berry Street Baptist Church in Eugene, Missouri. A funeral service will immediately follow the visitation at 11:00 a.m. at the church, officiated by Pastor Shay Carpenter.

Following the sanctuary service, interment will take place at Tipton Masonic Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers for the burial proceedings will be Kasey Poe, Robert Poe, Levi Puckett, Kevin Parker, Jeremiah Claunch, and Walter Wolff. Memorial contributions and expressions of sympathy may be directed to the family in care of the officiating funeral home.