Earl "Moe" Kovac

Earl "Moe" Kovac, 90, of Parksley, VA, passed away peacefully at his home on August 29, 2025, with his beloved granddaughter, Amanda, by his side.
Born on April 18, 1935, in Florence, New Jersey, Earl was the son of Stephen Kovac Sr. and Mary Lock-et. He was affectionately nicknamed "Moe" due to his strong resemblance to Moe from The Three Stooges - a name that stuck with him throughout his life and reflected his sense of humor and charm.
After graduating from high school, Earl proudly enlisted in the United States Navy on January 10, 1955. He served aboard the USS Hancock as part of Carrier Group 15 during the Vietnam War, working as an aviation mechanic on aircraft engines. He achieved the rank of Second Class Petty Officer before being honorably discharged on January 9, 1959.
On September 17, 1960, Earl married the love of his life, Janet May Lewis, in Roebling, NJ. Following his military service, he began a long and respected career as a Lieutenant correctional officer at Bay-side State Prison in Leesburg, NJ. Earl was known for his integrity, fairness, and the mutual respect he fostered with both colleagues and inmates.
In 1995, Earl and Janet relocated to Parksley, Virginia, to embrace a quieter life on the Eastern Shore. Two years later, their lives took on new meaning when they became the legal guardians of their granddaughter Amanda - a role Earl embraced with strength, love, and deep devotion.
A proud and active member of Onley Baptist Church, Earl was always ready to lend a hand, especially during church dinners and community events. He took joy in tending to the small farm he and Janet built together, often working on home projects and enjoying life outdoors.
Earl had a deep love for the water and was an avid duck hunter. He spent countless hours carving wooden decoys, navigating local waterways in his boat, and sharing these passions with close friends. At home, he was a steady, loving presence - always helping around the house, supporting Amanda and Janet, and quietly teaching lessons of resilience and independence that shaped generations.
He found joy in life's simple pleasures - taking long walks with Janet, Amanda, and their dogs; sharing stories from his Navy days and his time in corrections; staying active at the YMCA; and making regular trips back to New Jersey to visit his extended family during the holidays.
Earl will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, quiet strength, and enduring commitment to those he loved. A devoted husband, grandfather, veteran, and friend, he leaves behind a legacy of honor, compassion, and deeply rooted family values.
Earl was preceded in death by his father, Stephen Kovac Sr.; his mother, Mary (Locket) Kovac; his sister Nora (Kovac) Riley; his wife, Janet May (Lewis) Kovac; and his daughter, Denise Michelle Kovac.
Earl is lovingly survived by his devoted granddaughter, Amanda Marie Kovac; his brother, Stephen Kovac Jr.; his niece, Cathy Riley; his brother-in-law, John Riley; as well as several cherished cousins and extended family members. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Earl "Moe" Kovac, please visit our Tree Store.