Beloved Pastor Joshua N. Moore Sr. Passes, Leaving Legacy of Service

Plant City, FL, USA - It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Pastor Joshua N. Moore Sr., who left us on June 4, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on October 7, 1936, in Swainsboro, Georgia, he was the beloved son of Mattie and Devotie Moore and grew up as the elder of three brothers, alongside his two cherished sisters. His early academic prowess set the stage for a life filled with accomplishments, as he notably skipped the fifth grade and graduated from Eugene O. Douglas High School in Sebring, Florida.

In his service to country, Joshua honored the U.S. Army as a paratrooper in the 11th and 105th Airborne Divisions, a duty he proudly fulfilled in Munich, Germany, before receiving an honorable discharge in 1958. This military chapter of his life paved the way for his remarkable commitment to community and faith.

A Life of Faith and Service

Joining Shiloh Baptist Church in 1948, Joshua quickly became an active member, fulfilling numerous roles including junior deacon and youth leader. In 1965, he joined the First Baptist Church of Windham, where he distinguished himself as chairman of the deacon board and a trustee. His spiritual journey led him to study extensively, earning a Bachelor of Theology, an associate’s degree in Sociology, and advanced degrees from several theological institutions.

Called to ministry in 1970 and ordained two years later, Joshua’s pastoral journey began in earnest when he became the pastor at First Baptist Church of Windham in 1975, serving there for seven impactful years. His leadership extended as he acted as interim pastor in various churches before settling at First Baptist Church-Braceville in 1985, where he served until his retirement.

A Family Man

In his personal life, Joshua was a devoted family man. He married Patricia Ann Gordon on November 13, 1958, and together they welcomed eight children into their home, one of whom sadly preceded him in death. He was not just a father but a grandfather and great-grandfather, leaving behind a legacy of 20 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Joshua’s professional career was equally notable, having worked as a supervisor at General Motors in Lordstown, where he dedicated 30 years of his life before retiring. His community involvement was exemplary; he served as president of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance and held board positions in various organizations, contributing to the establishment of the A.D. Carter Memorial Scholarship Fund and supporting initiatives within the Congress of Christian Education.

Final Farewell

Josh’s funeral service is set for June 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at the First Baptist Church of Braceville, with visitation from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. His burial will take place at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Seville on June 16, 2025, where he will receive full military honors—a fitting tribute for a veteran whose life reflected dedication to country and community. Under law, eligible veterans like Joshua are entitled to military burial honors, which typically include a two-person honor guard, the playing of „Taps,“ and a flag folding ceremony presented to the family, according to We Are The Mighty.

Joshua’s legacy will endure through his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched throughout his ministry and service. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, his seven children, his beloved siblings, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In these times of saying goodbye, it’s clear: Joshua N. Moore Sr. made an indelible mark on the hearts of many. For further reading on this incredible man’s life, visit the obituaries on Tribune Chronicle here and Echovita here.