“I am honored to know the most servant-hearted, selfless man, and thankful for the bright light he was to this world.” A close friend said those words about Chester Moore which could not be more true.
Chester Moore took his last breath on December 18, 2023, at the age of 82, leaving behind 3 generations of a loving family and an indelible mark on the lives of many. He passed away peacefully and joined his beloved wife of almost 61 years who passed in 2022. His heart missed her so much. In a phone conversation with a friend just an hour prior to his passing, Chester said that he was “looking forward to joining Beverly someday,” and added “hopefully soon.” God answered his prayer.
“Chet” was born March 31,1941, in Martins Ferry, Ohio, to Anna Elizabeth (Bach) and Chester Moore, Jr. He graduated from Martins Ferry High School. He enlisted in the United States Air Force and went to Randolph Air Force Base for training. He met his beautiful bride while she was back in town from college at the Princess Drive-in on Broadway. That night, she told her friends that she was going to marry that man someday and he told his friends that he was going to marry that girl. They spent every day together until he had to return to Plattsburgh AFB in New York, but not before he asked for her hand in marriage. Chester and Beverly were married on October 7, 1961.
Chester served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years. His first assignment was as a Boom Operator, in which he operated a specialized boom to refuel aircraft mid-flight. He loved this role, however, he chose to find a career that would allow him to be at home more with his family. The Moore’s were stationed at several bases throughout the United States before being stationed in Las Cruces, New Mexico where Chester distinguished himself as a Recruiter for eight years. He was stationed at Lackland AFB for his final 4 years, serving as Orientation-Classification Interviewer. He retired in 1980 as Master Sergeant Chester A. Moore, receiving several Commendation and Meritorious Service Medals, Ribbons, and Decorations.
After retiring, Chester purchased a family-owned business from his father-in-law (est. 1955). Chester grew the company from the garage to a business. Working alongside his sons, Chester again retired in 2006, selling the company to his eldest son and wife. In his years after his second retirement, Chester was able to take care of his parents, travel, spend time with family, and hone his woodworking hobby. From time to time, he would join his wife in world travels. They drove to Alaska and lived in a self-converted van for the summer (before it was trendy). They also visited Europe including the beaches of Normandy, which impacted him greatly.
Chester was usually the first person others called when something broke at their house. He and Beverly sat with many friends in the hospital waiting room. When someone needed money or a TV or a car, etc., they were the ones to call. So many were blessed by this wonderful couple. Chester loved working in his shop. He made pens, birdhouses, and squirrel feeders which he enjoyed giving away. He made sure all his children and grandchildren were equipped with the correct tools for the job. He was gifted in so many ways. He also loved watching NASCAR races and enjoyed collecting many things.
He was a humble, quiet man with a heart for service as he poured his love into his family, friends, church and other non-profit organizations. Chester served on the board for Medina Childrens’ Home for several years. He and Beverly were members of MacArthur Park Church of Christ for over 40 years. They were known for hosting many parties at their home, especially the infamous New Year’s Eve party. Chet and Beverly taught Bible classes, worked with the bus ministry, led Bible Hour for children, cooked dinner for over 140 people for visitation nights, volunteered at the Care Cottage, and many things behind the scenes.
Chester spent time with the Lord Jesus Christ in prayer and studying the Bible. The night before his passing, he learned that another friend had died. He said he talked and listened to the friend’s grieving spouse for better than an hour and he was glad to be there for that friend. He mentioned 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 and agreed that we comfort others with the comfort that we ourselves receive.
Known as “Granddaddy” to the grandkids, he made sure each grandchild knew how special they were to him. He also enjoyed spending time with his two great-granddaughters who just adored him. He loved hearing his name, “Gandaddy.”
Chester is now rejoicing in heaven with Jesus, Beverly, and his parents.
He is survived by his children, Terri and Steve Woods, KaCey and Krista Moore, Suzi and Ivan Kaminsky, Jay Moore; his grandchildren, Kiley Woods, Tayla and Andrew Moore, Darci Woods, Kennedy Moore, Kamryn Moore and Garrett Kaminsky; two great-granddaughters that he loved so much, Halia and Colsie Moore and another great-grandchild due in April. He is also survived by his siblings, Chuck Moore, Ray and Nancy Moore, Rob and Jill Moore, Cathy Moore, Beth Moore, Joe and Dawn Moore and Keith and Stacy Moore, and many other nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
Though his passing was unexpected, Chester lived a full life. We are going to miss his wisdom, knowledge, and funny sayings, like “it’s your nickel.”
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to your non-profit of choice in Chester’s honor.
Chester will be buried at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery next to his beautiful wife.
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