James Moody

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Harley Moody, age 79, on May 12, 2025, in Lehi, Utah. He departed peacefully surrounded by his family, leaving behind a legacy of artistry, compassion, faith, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.
James was born on March 5, 1946, in Portland, Maine, to Alton and Gwen Moody. He graduated from Deering High School in Portland, where he discovered a lifelong love for music and community.
After high school, James proudly served as a drummer in the United States Air Force Band, performing across the nation. He then joined the United States Coast Guard Band for seven years, sharing his rhythmic talent and deepening his passion for service through music. During his Coast Guard tenure, he also worked as a part-time reporter for the Groton (Connecticut) newspaper, honing his storytelling skills and connecting with the community.
Shortly after leaving the Coast Guard, James joined his sister Sue Slaiger and her husband John in expanding Faith and Hope Baptist Church's ministry to serve the inner-city poor in Providence. Together they grew outreach programs, ministering and caring for the disenfranchised members of the community.
Within this season of ministry, James also pursued higher education at Rhode Island College, earning a Bachelor of Arts, a Master of Arts, and completing Advanced Graduate Study. He furthered his academic journey at Capella University, receiving a Doctor of Philosophy in Human Services with a specialization in Counseling Studies.
James's professional life unfolded in two fulfilling chapters:
• Early Career as a Musician
• Later Career as a Therapist and Counselor, founding Moody Counseling Services in Providence, Rhode Island
A true lifelong learner, he earned a Master of Graphoanalysis-studying how handwriting reveals personality traits-and fulfilled a boyhood dream by earning his pilot's license.
A devoted father, James coached baseball for his sons, Marc and Scott, instilling in them teamwork, perseverance, and a love of the game. As a devoted grandfather, James cherished his time with his grandchildren, showing them how to beat on the drums.
Beyond his professions, James served as an elder at Faith and Hope Baptist Church, where he loved the Lord deeply and found solace and inspiration in reading the Bible.
After retiring and relocating with Georgia to Longbranch, Washington, James returned to his first love-music-playing drums in the band for the Gig Harbor Peninsula Civic Orchestra for community musicals and ensembles.
Survived by
• Georgia Moody, his loving wife of 60 years
• Scott and Marc Moody, his sons
• Christine Ercanbrack, his daughter
• Six grandchildren: Christian, Blaise, Zoe, Karsten, Ryder, and Hendrix
• Sister Sue Slaiger
• Brothers Gary and Stan Moody
• A host of nieces, nephews, and dear friends
James's life was a symphony of service, creativity, and deep familial love. His memory will continue to inspire all who knew him