Ray Moore

Ray Moore, born on April 30, 1929, in McDowell, Kentucky, to Charles and Minnie (Dye) Moore, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Ray began his career at the Wabash County Highway Department for eleven years, before continuing his career for sixteen years with the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), from which he retired in 1989. Ray’s true passion however, was music. Ray's musical journey began at the age of 15, when he initially founded a country band known as Ray Moore and the Rhythm Ramblers, then he teamed up with his brother to form the Moore Brothers Bluegrass Band. Together, they entertained for close to fifty years, gracing stages at Bean Blossom Barn and numerous festivals across the state, including those in Anderson. In addition to his musical career, Ray was a proud founder of the Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association, where he contributed to the promotion and celebration of this beloved genre.

Ray's life took a beautiful turn when he met the love of his life, Josephine Nelson. Their love story began after Ray and his family relocated to the North Manchester area. One fateful day, Josephine arrived off a bus from Kentucky, and as she walked to her destination, Ray spotted her, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey together. They were united in marriage on April 26, 1947. Ray cherished their time together until Josephine's passing on July 11, 2014.

Known for his vibrant personality, Ray and Jo shared a passion for Bluegrass music, attending festivals for over forty years. For more than two decades, Ray enjoyed wintering in Florida, where he continued to find new friendships. A devoted Chicago Cubs fan, Ray's enthusiasm for sports was only rivaled by his talent for music.

A member of the First Baptist Church in Zolfo Springs, Florida, Ray also attended Christian Fellowship Church in North Manchester during his younger years. Known for his generous spirit, Ray possessed a soft heart that left a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

The loving memory of Ray Moore will be forever cherished by his sons, Roger (Peggy) Moore, Zolfo Springs, Florida and Ed (Pat) Moore, Urbana; daughter, Crystal “Cris” (Dave) Anderson, Columbia City; daughter-in-law, Karen Moore, Pierceton; grandchildren, Travis (Brooke) Moore, Andrew Moore, Don Beatty, Dave Davidson, Brooke (Eric) Beck, Jessica (Brian) Lardino, Karen Davidson, Christopher (Erin) Hagstrom, Greg (Monique) Anderson, and Matt (Laura) Hagstrom; great-grandchildren, Haylee Moore, Breanna Moore, Logan Moore, Shania Davidson, Seth Davidson, Sidney Beatty, Bryson Beck, Mayson Beck, Ava Hagstrom, Cooper Hagstrom, Liv Hagstrom, Bodee Hagstrom, June Hagstrom, and Edie Hagstrom; and six great-great-grandchildren. Ray was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Josephine Moore; son, Michael Ray Moore; brother, Canton (Ellaree) Moore; sister, Mae (Glessner “Toad”) Bradley; and grandson, Greg Moore.

Family and friends may call Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling with Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating. Burial will be held at Fairview Cemetery in Servia, Indiana.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Ray Moore, memorial contributions may be made to Parkview Hospice, c/o McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana 46962.

The family of Ray Moore has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.