James Oliver Moore

James Oliver Moore, age 85, of Candler, NC, went to be with his Lord on September 1, 2023 after a brief illness. 

Jim was known by his family as “Ray”, his friends called him by his preferred name, “Jim”, and his co-workers called him “Jimmy”.   Jim was a 1957 graduate of Enka High School.  After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served on the USS Shangri-La aircraft carrier as an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate – Aircraft Handler (ABH).  He sailed the western Pacific, Atlantic, Caribbean, and Mediterranean.  He completed his service in 1964 as a Petty Officer Third Class.   After his military service, he was a police officer with the Greensboro police department. Eventually, he settled on a career as a driver for United Parcel Service, where he retired after 30 years of service in 1995.  For many years, his route encompassed the entire territory west of Asheville to Cherokee, NC.  Jim was an avid North Carolina Tar Heels basketball fan and was thrilled that his grandson, Smythe, was attending college there.  He enjoyed watching Asheville Tourists baseball in his favorite seat on press row.

Jim is preceded in death by this parents, John Franklin Moore Sr. and Ethel Rhinehart Moore; his brothers, Clayton, Clarence, John Jr., and Lawrence.  He is survived by his three children, Michael Moore (Caroline) of Mt. Juliet, TN; Steven Moore of Candler; and Tara Lewis (Chris) of Candler.  His grandchildren, Kayleen May (Robert), Smythe Lewis, Andrew Moore, and Emily Moore; three great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff at Stonecreek Health and Rehabilitation and CarePartners Hospice Solace Center for the compassionate care Jim received during his illness.

Graveside services and burial will be at 11:00 am on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 in the Veteran’s section at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Candler with the Dr. Rev. Aileen Lawrimore officiating.  Military honors will be conducted by the United States Navy.

The care of Mr. Moore has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton and an online memorial register is available at "Obituaries" at www.wellsfuneralhome.com.