It is with great sadness that we report the passing of an important part of Croton: Jim Moore has died.
Wake
at Holy Name of Mary on Monday, 12/9 from 4 to 8PM. Funeral
at HNM on Tuesday 12/10 at 10AM. Burial
at Bethel Cemetery. Reception to follow in the James R Moore Gymnasium.
This is how we would like to remember Jim best: strong, happy, and always willing to stand up against everything from deals with the transfer station to his more recent commentary on Gouveia. An excellent, charitable, good man who spoke plainly, honestly, and carried himself well. Click on the photo.
You may also have an interest in
http://everythingcroton.blogspot.com/2013/04/photos-todays-dedication-of-jim-moore.html
FULL TEXT OF THE OBITUARY FOLLOWS:
James "JR" Moore passed away at home on December 6, 2013, surrounded by
his loving family, after a difficult struggle with stomach cancer. He
had recently turned 83 years old.
Jim was born November 12, 1930 to
Guy and Marie Moore in the Bronx, N.Y. Graduating from D. Witt Clinton
High School, he enlisted in the Navy, serving for a year in the
Submarine Division, based in New London, CT. Honorably discharged, Jim
achieved an Associate's Degree at Westchester Community College.
Shortly after he was hired by AT&T, beginning a successful 30 year
career.
Jim married Lillian Fuchs in February of 1955. Moving into
Croton-on-Hudson in September of 1960, their family eventually grew to
six children. Having been a member of the Knights of Columbus in the
Bronx, Jim joined the local chapter and stayed an active member, serving
the organization with an energy that he brought to everything in his
life.
After his retirement from AT&T, Jim continued to work.
Many local restaurants came to know him very well during the lead up to
the Croton Gazette's annual restaurant edition. Working in the role of
advertising manager, he absolutely delighted in being able to swell the
pages of the Croton Gazette to near triple digits.
A dedicated member
of the Holy Name of Mary parish, Jim started a CYO Basketball team in
1965. What began with one team has since blossomed, under his guidance,
into a 15 team program. A testament that the best coaches are not only
teachers but mentors, Jim has maintained close relationships with many
of his former players. The Holy Name of Mary church hall, that Jim
helped to convert into a basketball court years ago, was recently named
in his honor for his years of devotion to the parish and the program.
CYO
was only one of several youth sports programs that Jim started. In
conjunction with the Croton Recreation Department, he initiated the
Croton Boy's Flag Football League, Girl's Flag Football League and Boys
Recreation Basketball programs in the 1960's. Basketball and football
aside, Jim managed to coach the K of C Minor leagues baseball for well
over 10 years. As if work, six children, multiple coaching
assignments, involvement with the K of C, his parish and local politics
wasn't enough, Jim attended mass at the V.A. in Montrose every Sunday
morning for 40 years, assisting veterans to attend church service. Jim also spent time visiting Sing-Sing prison where he offered spiritual guidance and a listening ear to many individuals.
During
two summers working in Yankee Stadium hawking beer and hot dogs in his
teens, Jim became an avid fan of Ted Williams, and a lifelong Red Sox
fan. His recent time in the hospital was made easier as he watched his
beloved Sox win another World Championship.
Anyone who has read the
Croton Gazette since the mid 1960's, would more often than not be
treated to Jim's literary styling. Whether it was an update of the
latest CYO team news or voicing a political opinion, Jim was never shy
about making his voice heard. Jim's energy, giving spirit, and
devotion to his family and community were with him until the day of his
passing and lives on in the many lives he has touched. Whether he was
sharing a beer, going to the gym, debating politics, or sneaking treats
to his grandchildren, he did it with a smile on his face and that smile
was always infectious to those around him.
Jim was pre-deceased by
his brother Guy Moore. He is survived by his wife Lillian, children;
James (Wendy), Robert (Theresa), Paula (Paul), Christopher (Karen),
Laura and Daniel (Alyse). He will be missed by his thirteen
grandchildren; Sarah, Ryan, Duncan, Rebecca, Jacob, Dylan, Caleb,
Daniel, Conor, Allison, Caleigh, Lily and Cora.
In lieu of flowers,
donations can be made to the Holy Name of Mary parish and will be
applied to the restoration of the James R. Moore Memorial Gymnasium.
