Mary Moore

We can’t write a standard obituary, because our mom wasn’t a standard person. Surrounded by family, Mary Darwin Marsh Moore, 76, died peacefully at home on June 22nd.

Mom was raised in Boone, NC by Mary Nell and John Darwin Marsh (and Johnny Mathis and Andy Williams). She got her bachelor’s degree at Appalachian State, married Dad in 1971,then returned (with Andrew in tow) to get her master’s degree in education.

And boy was she ever a MASTER in education. She used teaching as an avenue to love, encourage, and get to know the children in her care. Her students had nicknames that made them feel special. They had jobs to make their presence necessary and valuable. They had assignments so she could point out their growth (written in her unforgettable, beautiful handwriting).
Thankfully many of Mom’s students have shared the different ways Mom loved them -
You’ve never been to a restaurant? Well, you better think about where you want to go. Anywhere you want - I’m taking you (I believe they ended up at Outback).
You’re struggling to learn those multiplication facts? Well, as soon as you do I’m taking you out for ice cream.
You’ve never been to a tea party? Well it just so happens that I’m hosting a tea party at my house for all the girls in our class.
You need a bra? I will get you one.
Your parents need help with Christmas presents? I’ve got you covered.
You don’t know how smart and capable you are? Well let me tell you.
You’ve never been loved, or even liked, by a teacher? Well you are my very favorite.

Mom was also a MASTER Mom. We received her unconditional, unwavering, and unlimited love. Mom was there for everything from our biggest events to our tiniest thoughts. She sacrificed things for herself so that she could give or do for my brother and me. And then eight years ago she found her daughter that she had given up for adoption 47 years earlier. Having located her baby, the mom of two finally got to be the mom of three. She was so happy to finally have Beth in our family.

Mom’s love wasn’t limited to children. She and our dad shared a beautiful life. They worked as a team to raise a family, but some of their greatest moments were in retirement. Mom and Dad simply enjoyed being together. They did everything together - grocery shopping, camping, and traveling across the country. Her magazines drove him crazy, his knowledge of everything made her nuts, and they wouldn’t have it any other way. Mom was so proud of her husband, and always loved to dance with him in the kitchen.

And then came grandchildren - her favorite walk of life. She wanted to make all their dreams come true. GranMary was most content when rocking one (or two) of her babies. Her love for them was profound and deep. Even in her absence they each know that GranMary was their number one supporter.

Mary Moore - a master mom, wife, GranMary, great-GranMary, daughter, granddaughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, teacher, and friend. She loved each and every one of us in a way that was individually unique and special. Mom will be remembered for making so many of us better, stronger, happier, and wiser for being a recipient of her love.

Mary is survived by her husband of 52 years, Wylie Mackie Moore, her sister Ellen Marsh Geitner (Eric), and her brother John Barclay Marsh (Debbie).
Mom is survived by her children, Beth Higgs (Pete), Andrew Moore (Debbie), Amanda Moore Stroupe (Scott), and her four legged Junie Girl.
GranMary is survived by Jeff Higgs (Melanie), Joe Higgs (Kelley), April Jones (Jessie), Sarah Bradley (Christopher), Rachel Moore (Brayden), Ben Moore, David Stroupe, Sam Stroupe, Annie Stroupe, and Caroline Stroupe. She also lives on through her great-grands Samantha, Logan, Liam, Wesley, and Lincoln.

We will love and miss her forevermore.

Those wishing to express sympathy may consider making a donation to the Mary Moore Memorial Scholarship. Donations can be made online at caldwelleducationfoundation.com or by mail to:
Education Foundation Inc. of Caldwell County
1914 Hickory Blvd. SW
Lenoir, NC 28645

A private memorial service will be held, followed by a celebration open to all in the fall. Details will be shared on Facebook.