Remembering Larry Anderson

September 24, 1966 – November 30, 2025

Larry Anderson

Former Board Chair, Pride Center of Staten Island

We honor and remember Larry Anderson, a devoted leader, advocate, and community builder who served for four years on the Board of the Pride Center of Staten Island, as Board Chair.

A proud native Staten Islander, Larry lived a life rooted in service, creativity, and deep community engagement. He and his partner of twenty-two years made their home on Staten Island, where they shared their lives with their two beloved dogs, Luna and Simon.

Larry was a 30-year veteran of the live entertainment industry. For the last ten years of his career, he served as Director of Performing Arts and Public Programs at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, where he managed two theaters, three outdoor performance spaces, and oversaw 659 events—including theater and dance performances, concerts, festivals, and public programs—that brought more than 134,000 people to Snug Harbor. Larry was immensely proud to live and work in his hometown and to bring world-class cultural experiences to the people of Staten Island.

Larry’s commitment to community extended well beyond his professional life. He served for many years on the Richmond County Democratic Committee, the Snug Harbor Neptune Ball Planning Committee, and volunteered for special events at the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art.

At the Pride Center of Staten Island, Larry’s impact was profound. As Board Chair, he provided thoughtful leadership during a critical period of growth and transition, helping to strengthen governance, elevate the Center’s visibility, and deepen its connection to the community. Larry was a passionate advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, firmly believing that everyone deserves safety, dignity, representation, and a place where they belong. He championed inclusive programming, supported staff and volunteers, and worked tirelessly to ensure the Pride Center remained a welcoming, affirming, and vibrant space for all.

Larry brought his vision, professionalism, and generous spirit to everything he did. His legacy lives on through the Pride Center, the LGBTQIA+ community he so deeply cared for, and the countless lives he touched across Staten Island.

In honor of his memory and enduring legacy, the Pride Center of Staten Island named its most lively and vibrant room after Larry. The Larry Anderson Rainbow Room, This space—filled with energy, creativity, and community—is a fitting tribute to Larry’s spirit and the joy, leadership, and connection he brought to the Pride Center and to the LGBTQIA+ community he so deeply loved. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered with love, gratitude, and pride.