LeRoi Holloway Moore
LeRoi Holloway Moore was born on September 7, 1961, in Durham, North Carolina to the late Albert P. Moore and Roxie Holloway Moore.
The family settled in Charlottesville, Virginia during LeRoi's early childhood.
Roi's musical aptitude was demonstrated as a mere toddler when he would walk around scatting jazz riffs, "Bop Bop." Today, LeRoi is still called "Bop Bop" by his aunts and uncles.
Roi attended Charlottesville area public schools and graduated from the Western Albermarle High School. During this time he studied and mastered the saxophone.
Roi's dedication to music was evident in Charlottesville. He was a founding member of the Charlottesville Swing Orchestra and the John D'earth Quintet, which played weekly at Millers.
In 1991, LeRoi met Dave Matthews and agreed to record songs with him for a demo tape.
Shortly after this partnership, Roi became a founding member of the Dave Matthews Band and played the flute, penny whistle, and a variety of saxophones.
He was one of the few saxophonist to become a key member of a pop rock band. Jake Werkmeister said in a recent article, "What you may not know is how this seemingly humble man has single-handedly changed the way that a saxophonist is perceived in a rock band."
In addition to his love of music, LeRoi was an avid sports fan. He played football in high school. He enjoyed watching golf, soccer and his beloved Dallas Cowboys.
Roi was the oldest of three brothers and was part of the famous trio, "RoiRodneyand Jeffrey." His favorite moments were those spent with family and friends. His trademarks to the world were the sound of his saxophone and dark glasses. His trademarks to his family and loved ones were his infectious smile, laugh, generosity and wonderful sense of humor.
LeRoi was engaged to Ms. Lisa Bean in November. He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving mother, Roxie Holloway Moore; two brothers, Rodney Moore and Jeffrey Moore; a sister-in-law, Rosemary Moore and a host of loving family members and adoring music fans.
Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, August 27, 2008, at First Baptist Church, 735 Park Street, with the Reverend Sherry Hardwick Thomas presiding and the Reverend Doctor William Guthrie delivering the eulogy.
Visitation will be held from 12 until 5 p.m. Tuesday, August 26, 2008, at First Baptist Church, 735 Park Street.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Charlottesville Area Community Fund, Memo: LeRoi Moore Memorial Fund. P.O. Box 1767, Charlottesville, VA. 22902.
J. F. Bell Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Published in the Daily Progress on August 25, 2008
