Rodney Wayne Poor

Rodney Wayne Poor, affectionately known as “Rapid” Rod and lovingly called “Gramps” by his friends and family, passed away peacefully at his home in Mariposa, California, on October 14, 2026, at the age of 87.

Born on April 18, 1939, in Mariposa, California, to Roy Poor and Esma McNally, Rod was a lifelong resident of the community he loved. A twin, Rod shared the beginning of life's journey with his brother, Ron Poor. His roots run deep in Mariposa, where he spent most of his life on the McNally family homestead and ranch, a place that remained central to his story throughout his life.

Rod was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Poor and Esma McNally; his beloved wife, Judy Poor; and his brothers Ron and Rodger.

A celebration of Rod’s life will be held on November 21, 2026, at the Mariposa County Fairgrounds, Building A. Family and friends are invited to come together to remember, share stories, and celebrate a life filled with family, friendship, hard work, and adventure.

In his early years, Rod spent summers packing through the Sierra Nevada mountains and helping run cattle. Those experiences connected him to the land, ranching traditions, and independent spirit of the Sierra foothills. The hard work and adventurous nature of those early years helped shape the man he would become.

Rod became well known in the California short-track auto racing community during the 1960s and 1970s. Known to fans as “Rapid” Rod, he was a fearless competitor at Merced Speedway, where his driving and larger-than-life personality made him a memorable figure. His passion for racing continued throughout his life, and in 2001, he returned to Merced Speedway to help bring the spirit of vintage racing back through the Nostalgic Valley Sportsman Division. His name and legacy continue to be remembered by racing fans and fellow drivers.

While racing brought Rod recognition, his family, ranching, and work in the Mariposa community were equally important parts of his life.

Rod was also the proud father of two children from his first marriage, Marty (Nicki) and Diana (Toni). On July 30, 1969, Rod married the love of his life, Judy Poor. Together, they built a life rooted in love, hard work, family, and their shared connection to the community. When Rod and Judy married, his family grew and he gained a son, Larry Cullens (Tisha), whom Rod welcomed into his life.

Rod and Judy created their own logging company, JR Logging, which provided employment opportunities for many local Mariposa residents. Through their business, they contributed to the community they called home, building relationships and helping support local families. Rod was a talented equipment operator who took great pride in his work. Whether running heavy equipment, working in the logging business, or tending to cattle, he was happiest doing the work he knew and loved.

Tragically, Judy passed away on April 9, 2006. Her loss left a lasting place in Rod’s heart. Their years together were a cherished part of his life, and the love they shared remained an important part of his story.

Above all, Rod loved his family, especially his nine grandchildren: Megan, Jennifer, Mandy, Carina, Travis, Randa, Larry, Riley, and Cody. He loved his grandchildren with all his heart, and they held a very special place in his life. His love for them was an important part of who he was, and the memories they shared will remain treasured for years to come.

Rod was a friend to many and enjoyed life. He had a strong connection to the people of Mariposa and valued the relationships he built throughout his years. Whether on the ranch, operating equipment, working in the logging business, or sharing stories with friends, Rod brought his own unmistakable spirit to everything he did. He was a hardworking man who took pride in his work, loved his family deeply, and appreciated the life he had built.

From the family homestead in Mariposa to the racetrack at Merced Speedway, Rod lived a life marked by adventure, determination, hard work, and unforgettable memories. He belonged to a generation whose lives were shaped by the land, the people around them, and the passions they pursued with their whole hearts.

Rodney Wayne “Rapid” Rod Poor leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond the racetrack. He will be remembered as a son of Mariposa, a brother, a loving husband, a father, a grandfather, a hardworking businessman, a skilled equipment operator, a cowboy, a loyal friend, and a celebrated racer whose name remains part of California short-track racing history.

His life touched many people through family, friendship, work, and racing. The stories he leaves behind will continue to be shared, and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

The checkered flag may have fallen on his final race, but the legend of Rapid Rod will continue to run.