It is with a very heavy heart that we announce the passing of Thomas Richard Moon, Sr. of Gadsden, AL, who was known by most as "Tommy". At the age of 93, he entered peacefully into his next adventure following a brief illness on Wednesday, October 22nd at Dominion Senior Living of Chattanooga, TN where he and his wife had relocated earlier this year.
Tommy is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Carolyn Phillips Moon and brother, Gerald Moon. His vibrant spirit lives on through his children: Richard Moon, Lana (Bob) Esslinger and Sherry Harris along with his grandchildren: Lauren (John) Hollingsworth, Matthew (Emily) Esslinger and Kathryn Gulledge; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Phil (Betty) Phillips. He also leaves behind his adored great grand-children: Landon, Micah Cole, Piper, Asa, Luke, Olivia, Harper and Henley. He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Imo Mamie Moon, grandson Micah Esslinger and brothers: Walter, Curt, Harry and Roe.
Born on September 25th, 1932 in Gadsden to the late Walter and Imo Mamie Moon, Tommy was the 5th born of six brothers. In his early adult years, Tommy served in the US Navy primarily in the 6th fleet during the Korean War. He carried this same spirit of service into every aspect of his life, whether it be as a deacon at Meadowbrook Baptist Church (where he had been a decades-long member), serving on the Board of Adjustment for Rainbow City, or helping work the local polls during elections. He was a loyal employee of Goodyear Tire & Rubber for the majority of his career until retirement.
Tommy was a lifelong University of Alabama football fan who embodied the heart and pride of the Crimson Tide. Game days were cherished moments he shared with his family and friends, never losing faith despite the outcome of the season. His love for Alabama was beyond the game of football, it was a way of life that will be honored in his memory by those that loved him most.
Tommy's life was a testament to the power of family with a love that knew no bounds. His playful nature created strong bonds among his grandchildren and great grand-children that better knew him as "Poppy". He will always be remembered for his clever wit, impressive "magic tricks", trademark sayings and infectious spirit that made him a favorite among the youngest members at family gatherings. This legacy of laughter and love will be carried on by those who knew and adored him. He will be deeply missed in all the milestones to come and will forever remain in our hearts until we meet again.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff and residents of Dominion Senior Living as well as the hospice care team at Hospice of Chattanooga for their compassion and support during this difficult time.
The family will gather from 12:30 to 1 pm at the North Chapel on Tuesday, October 28th. We will leave at 1 pm going together in a procession to the Chattanooga National Cemetery.
A service celebrating the life of Tommy Moon will be held at the Chattanooga National Cemetery located at 1200 Bailey Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37404 on Tuesday, October 28th at 1:30 p.m. EST.
Memorial contributions may be made in Tommy’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org/memorial
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com
The arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343.
