Mary L. Moore

Mary Louise Moore was born in 1925 in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to David and Mary (Kelly) King. She was one of seven children born to this union: William H. King (Sport), Norman R. King, Caroline Miller King, David King Jr. (Gloria Rozier), Mildred King Thompson, Joseph King (Joan Bracco King), and Patricia King Herring-all of whom preceded her in death.

Mary fondly recalled her childhood as a happy time surrounded by family. She often shared stories of her mother's cooking and baking, and of her paternal grandparents, Taylor and Lou Anthony King, who lived with the family and loved them deeply. When Mary's mother passed away at age 18, Mary, as the eldest daughter, became a mother figure to her younger siblings, particularly Patricia, whom she lovingly took on outings as a young woman. She remained close to all her siblings throughout their lives.

Her maternal grandmother, Eva Kelly McSwain, lived to 94, a testament to longevity in the family. Mary often credited her own long life to her daily cup of hot tea with lemon and sugar-and her beloved sweet treats.

At age 28, Mary married William Moore after his service in the Army. They relocated to Berea, Ohio, where he graduated from Baldwin Wallace College. Their union produced three children: Kathryn, Deborah, and William ("Billy"). Mary was a devoted mother who prioritized her children's education, integrity, and sense of family. She worked as a stay-at-home mother for many years and later attended night school to earn certification in dietary services. This led to a 25-year career in the Nutritional Services Department at the Cleveland Clinic, where she worked until retirement.

Mary's life was filled with love for her family. She was a devoted grandmother to Jerome Riase (and daughter-in-love Dawn), Alyssa Moore, and Andrew Moore (and daughter-in-love Kennedy), and a proud great-grandmother to Lemuel Jerome "L.J." Riase Jr.-the apple of her eye. After retirement, she volunteered at local elementary schools, helping children improve their reading.

In her 40s, Mary decided to learn to drive. Ever independent, she bought a brand-new car delivered to her home so she could learn without risking someone else's vehicle. After diligent practice, she passed her driving test and drove happily until age 85. When her children quietly chose to stop repairing her car, she accepted it gracefully-and the car still sits in her driveway today.

Mary cherished Sunday dinners, holidays, and family gatherings. She was known for her warm hospitality, signature dishes, and unwavering kindness. She joined Olivet Institutional Baptist Church in 1978 and remained a loyal, active member of the Women's and Seniors' Ministries until her passing. At over 100, she was often the oldest in the room and was posthumously honored with a Living Legend Award at a recent retreat.

Mary was a constant companion to her daughter Kathryn, accompanying her to galas, luncheons, business trips, and events where she became affectionately known as "The Little Lady." She shared a love of travel and fashion with her daughter Deborah, and they often shopped together. Deborah's greatest gift to her mother was her son, Jerome, whom they both adored. Mary stood by Deborah through her battle with cancer and was heartbroken by her passing; they are now reunited in heaven.

When Billy was born, Mary's wish was to live long enough to see him graduate from high school. She not only fulfilled that wish but became his steadfast supporter through sports, college, and life. She proudly followed both her son and grandsons' football careers-traveling across the country well into her 80s and 90s to attend games at Ashland University, Wofford University, Georgia Tech, Clemson, and The Ohio State University. She even kept up with her great-grandson L.J.'s games, discussing every play with him afterward. She was also an avid Cleveland Cavaliers fan.

Mary shared a close bond with her granddaughter Alyssa, attending her soccer games and theater performances and passing down her famous pound-cake recipe. Her final outing was a joyful dinner celebrating Alyssa's birthday.

Mary lived an extraordinary life-marked by faith, resilience, and fierce devotion to family. She opened her heart to many who came to see her as a mother or grandmother figure. She was proud, independent, strong-willed, and full of love.

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandson, cousins, nieces, nephews, and a host of extended family and friends too numerous to name.

Mary Louise Moore was only on loan to us for a brief 100 years. Today, we return her to God with all our love.