Biography:

Andre Poirot, 67, Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away with his family by his side on June 11, 2026 after a short battle with cancer.

He was born to Georges and Henriette “Pepette” (nee Meazza) in Cornimont, France, and grew up in LaBresse, France.

He graduated from LEp Gerarademer Culinary School, and worked at various restaurants in France. He served as chef mess officer in the French army. His early career took him to England and Bermuda, then to the United States in 1989. He met and married the love of his life, Debbie, in 1991, and gained his U.S. citizenship in 2002. He was extremely proud of being both French and American. He loved American football and was a passionate Saints fan. Being a chef was more than just a job, it was his passion and love-language. Whether feeding a crowd at work, teaching a class, mentoring an individual, or preparing a meal at home for family and friends, taking care of people was how he expressed love. Volunteering his time and talent gave him great joy.

He is preceded in death by his father, Georges, step-father, Pierrot Chevrier, and brother, Arsene.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 35 years, Debbie (nee Pelletier), three children, Chloe, Jonah, and Li, his mother, Pepette, and brothers, Joel (Colette), Marthyl (Gervaise), Herve (Christine), sister-in-law, Josienne, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A Rosary and Mass will be held on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at 9:30 AM at Christ the King Catholic Church, and a Celebration of Life to remember his legacy will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the Clinton Library. He will be laid to rest at le cimetière de L'église Saint Laurent in La Bresse, France. 

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Carti and St. Vincent hospitals. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to Food Jobs Work https://www.foodjobswork.org/ or the Clinton Foundation https://www.clintonfoundation.org.