Stephen Ray Moore

Stephen Ray Moore obituary, Franklin, TN

Stephen Ray Moore

Stephen Moore Obituary

Visit the Alternative Cremation & Funeral Service - Franklin website to view the full obituary.
A native of Knoxville, TN, Stephen (Steve) Ray Moore was born on June 17, 1952 and passed away Wednesday, June 14, 2017 in Franklin, TN. After receiving his bachelor's degree in education from the University of Tennessee, he dedicated his entire career as a public school teacher and high school basketball coach in the East Tennessee area. Excelling in the classroom was just as important to him as excelling on the court. Steve was a favorite among students, earning him numerous yearbook dedications, Who's Who Among America's Teachers, and even Disney National Teacher of the Year nomination. Steve coached many sports including baseball, soccer, and tennis; however, basketball was his passion. He had the unique ability to get the most out of each of his players. Most of his championships came from "Cinderella teams," earning him numerous Coach of the Year titles, including the honor of State AAA Basketball Coach of the Year for Tennessee in 1991. Decades later, former players continue to reach out to "Coach" to let him know what an impact he made on each of their lives. After retirement in 2007, Steve enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, playing lots of tennis, watching various sporting events especially cheering on the Vols, and playing poker with his buddies. He was loved by so many and brought joy to those around him with his positive energy and his effervescent spirit. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, KK (Harness); children Randy, Buffy, and Keely; grandchildren Stetson, Braxton, and Kaydence. He also leaves behind his two brothers Larry and James as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends. A private ceremony is being planned for the immediate family. If you recall a favorite memory of Steve that brings a smile to your face, please feel free to let the family know by leaving it here. Also, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support pancreatic cancer research at www.lustgarten.org. Unless you would prefer to remain anonymous, please use the following email address so that the family will be notified: [email protected]. Steve's daughter, Keely, wrote the following eulogy in 2006 as an assignment for her AP English class. The words still hold true today: "Dad, you were more than just a great father to me, you were and always will be my best friend. We are not here to mourn your death, but to celebrate you and the life you led. You know me better than anyone. Whenever I had a bad day, no matter how hard I tried to hide my feelings, you always knew and solved my problems. You sacrificed so much for me and Mom and Buffy and Randy -- for every person in your life. When I was growing up, I did not understand some of your decisions, but looking back, they were perfect. You were perfect. Nothing is the same now that you are gone. Snow days aren't the same without you watching movies with me; basketball isn't the same without your guidance; naps aren't the same without you there to rub my arms. You made everything special. This world suffered a great loss losing a man like you. You truly are the 'Renaissance man.' You are one of those people everyone aspires to be like when they get older. You are our hero."

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Alternative Cremation & Funeral Service - Franklin

206B Cool Springs Blvd. Suite 201, Franklin, TN 37067

Sign Stephen Moore's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 2, 2017

Ralph Harness posted to the memorial.

June 20, 2017

Gary Thompson posted to the memorial.

June 18, 2017

James Cotter posted to the memorial.

Ralph Harness

July 2, 2017

Steve and I had many conversations over the years covering many subjects but we would usually always get back to sports. I have watched basketball games for over 70 years and watched Steve coach for many of his games. This was his passion and he was good at it. He could take ten young boys at the beginning of the year who hardly knew what a basketball was and by yearned they were ready for tournament play usually winning the District and going to the Region. He knew how to win and get the most out of his boys. He was a great coach. He was the best.

Gary Thompson

June 20, 2017

I was so sorry to hear of Steves passing.while I had only known Steve about 4yrs thru tennis I felt like he had been a friend for life I'll always remember his competitive nature,needling opponents, that deceptive backhand, but always a big smile on his face win or lose.
It was amazing how Steve continued to live a full life while knowing what he faced,what a great example of courage and class to all of us,we will miss him!

Jimmy Smith

June 16, 2017

Coach Moore his wife kk and kids was moore like family to me I thought the world of coach Moore he was just like a dad to me in school he helped me to get were I am now I remember to in school my knee cap came out of place and he pushed me to were I could walk on it again he kept telling me I could walk with out crashs and I did he was my best friend I am going miss coach Moore

Patsy Morris

June 16, 2017

So sorry for the loss of your husband Kk. No words can describe how you n your children are hurting we all send prayers. For all the family

Lorraine Rutherford

June 16, 2017

Remembering this teacher and how he influenced my daughter's life

Dustin Gilliam

June 16, 2017

Steve, Oh how you will be missed. I know your family will grieve you the most, as will all who had the wonderful opportunity to know you, but sadly the ones who will miss the most are the future generations who will not have the pleasure of knowing you. I could talk all day about how great of a friend, coach, or teacher you were, but the words would fall short and not do you justice. I had the privilege of playing 4 years under you and staying in touch several years after that. I hope you know that you taught us young men so much more than the game of basketball. So many of those life lessons have helped me out over the years and I try to instill those lessons in my children today. To your beautiful family, I am so sorry for your loss, but know you are loved by many. Steve truly was one of a kind, he was and always will be a legend.

Wendi (Hardy) Leary

June 16, 2017

To the family,
I am very sorry for you loss. Coach Moore was a great and awesome teacher I had him for US History my junior year at Rhea County High School. He made learning fun. I pray that God will comfort you and give you peace during this time.

Jerry and Melanie King

June 16, 2017

We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Coach Moore. Jerry played ball for him, and admired him so much as a coach and a teacher. I remember how much he loved his family, especially his kids. I had never seen a father who openly loved his kids with so much enthusiasm. It made a great impression on me. What a legacy he has left. You're in our prayers.

Thomas Robinson

June 16, 2017

I sometimes subbed for Steve at Rhea County High School and I drove the basketball team bus for several years. I have nothing but pleasant memories of him as a coach and as a man. He was one of the good ones.

Ashleigh Scales

June 16, 2017

So sad to see this! I loved his class! Coach Moore was hilarious, quick witted, and so fun! I had ACT class with him during his time at Rhea County High School.

Samuel King

June 16, 2017

Coach Moore was my favorite teacher in school. He got me involved in history and made my life in school so much more fun. So sorry for the family's loss he was one of the greatest people I ever met. Thanks for everything coach and RIP!!

Cheryl Johnson

June 16, 2017

KK, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Please remember I am here to listen and talk.

Jerry King

June 16, 2017

So sorry for your loss. Coach Moore is one of the best. He will be missed.

Joanne Sheldon (Ogle)

June 16, 2017

I am so, so sorry to hear of Coach Moore's passing. He always made me feel that I could be so much more than what I ever thought I could be in life. He helped many of us recognize our true potential and how to become leaders.

Love, Joanne (aka Joanna Banana)
Assistant District Attorney General
(Because Coach Moore said I kicked butt and could do it!)

Ashli Blalock-Christen

June 16, 2017

Randy and family,

I am truly sorry for your loss. Steve was such a fixture for all of us in high school and many years after. He impacted so many lives. His legacy lives on through all of you and his many athletes. My thought and prayers are with you all.

Sincerely,

Ashli Blalock Christen

Darleah Terrell

June 16, 2017

KK and Keeley, so sorry to hear about Steve! I always enjoyed when he came to the office for his cleanings. He was all smiles, and pride when he would talk about his family! Praying for y'all during this time. Sincerely, Darleah Terrell and Drs. Ken and Brian Beard and staff

Amber Oldham-Keylon

June 16, 2017

I remember all the laughs that we had in his class room. He always made class fun and if you didn't understand something he would take extra time to explain it to you. I haven't seen him since 1999, but I still talk to people about him often. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten. Wished we had more teachers like him.

Julie Blalock

June 16, 2017

So very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to the family. I will keep you all in my prayers.

Edie Shaver

June 16, 2017

Come remember Coach Moore as a class act for the basketball program at Rhea County High School. He coached my son as well as the many other boys that played. I am sorry for the loss of this wonderful talented man, but celebrate his life with his family. My prayers are with you.

Tina Perry

June 16, 2017

Randy, I was so sorry to hear about your Dad. I know how close you two were and how hard this must be for you and your family. I will be praying for peace & comfort for you, your boys and the rest of your family. Your Dad was a special guy and will be missed by many!

Connie Gollaher

June 16, 2017

"Fly high". I will never forget the love and motivation he gave. He was such an inspiration for me and others at Rhea County High. By far the best mentor that I've ever met. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Donna and Mike Clark

June 16, 2017

Randy, Buffy, and Keeley...Your dad was such an amazing man. Always with a smile and extremely kind heart. We will be thinking about you and sending much love to all of your family.

Dustin Shaver

June 16, 2017

I wasn't sure what to call myself to you Coach when it asked my relationship below! I don't know where to start because I'm so upset to hear this news. Coach you were a father figure, healer, leader and my rock during the hardest times in my life. I knew I could always come to you with the good or the bad and you were there for me. You taught me that putting your heart into whatever you want to do will show your true character. I will never forget our car rides every morning my freshman and some of my sophomore year. (Keely, you and me). You would always drill me the next morning during the drive after a win or loss just to hear my perspective of the game. I will never forget the love and welcoming to your family that you and KK showed me. KK made the best muffins still to this day that I have ever had! You always made everyone feel like family and welcomed anyone you came in contact with. I hope and pray that I can be the father to my new son, the family man, the friend and the loving husband you were in my eyes. I love you Coach and I will carry your loving spirit with me the rest of my days. I love you KK and Keely and I'm praying for you all and the rest of the family.

Teresa Hanes

June 16, 2017

David and I want to express our love and prayers to your family. What amazing man and teacher. Ashely is now 30years old and still talks about how Steve made learning fun to his high school students. He will be dearly missed.

Lindsey & Brad Watson

June 16, 2017

Brad & I were both always very fond of his vibrant smile & amazing attitude. He was always ready to make you laugh, even if it were at the expense of one of his pokey jokes. He pushed hard for all his students & players to do their best for themselves. I will forever be grateful for his kindness & the memories we have of the times we spent. To the family, we are terrible sorry for this loss of a beloved father, fiend, brother, husband, coach, teacher & mentor. This "Cheerleader" will always remember your sweet soul!

Mike Lovett

June 16, 2017

I have so many memories of coaching against Steve at the Boys Club in the 70s. Steve was very intense but cared for those boys. Enjoyed coaching Randy when he was 10. Larry and James, enjoy the memories.

Tonja Mitchell

June 16, 2017

I loved uncle Steve so much he taught me a lot growing up and I'm thankful for that my prayers are with u aunt kk and randy buffy and Keely I love u all

Andy Webb

June 16, 2017

I am honored and blessed to have known Coach Steve Moore. He was truly an inspiration in my life, and I will always be very grateful to him. May God give him eternal rest. Your family is in my prayers.

Jennifer Miller

June 15, 2017

Ask Randy about this....Coach Moore was my teacher and track coach. Evrytime I think of his I truly smile...he was always so kind and funny. As a cheerleader for the football team and a track runner, as well as a part of the Class of '92 (supposedly the "wildest graduating class ever") we would ALWAYS prank Coach Moore!

I remember 1 time the football team rolled his classroom and took all the desks out....plus seran wrapped his desk shut so he couldn't even get to his work! There was so much toilet paper in the class that when he walked in you couldn't even see the floor! He thought it was all funny till he literally couldn't get into his desk. Needless to say it was historical. Sad part is, today if kids did this they'd be expelled from school for a year!

The other great memory is when the track team went to his house at night (all of us loaded in the back of a truck) and rolled the heck out of his home. Me, Susan MnNeilly, Kim Huskey, and I think Nathan Brown were the main colperates. However when were running to jump in the "get away" truck, Kim slipped on the gravel in the driveway and split her knee wide open! When back at my house, Susan and I tried to hide Kim from my mom and STOP THE GUSHING BLOOD! Well Mom came in my bedroom and saw how bad it was and we needed up in the ER. Kim had to have stitches. So hears the part to ask Randy about....KK, Randy said he had to clean it ALL up the next day. Randy literally didn't know it was me until I told him LAST YEAR!

Sorry Randy...and sorry KK for ALL the TP messes and memories. Love y'all and God bless. May Coach Moore always be remembered with love and laughter. RIP.

JENNIFER "Duggan" MILLER

Valerie Sinclair

June 15, 2017

Coach Moore was the BEST teacher ever! Thankful to have been taught by this man. You are in our prayers

Bonita McCowan

June 15, 2017

So many great memories of Coach Moore. He was such a nice person and good to my girl's at The a County High School. Praying for God to give comfort to you all during this time.

Derek Tobin

June 15, 2017

One of the best things that ever happened in High School was when Coach Moore talked Mike Janusek and I (two basketball players with no tennis experience) into being his number 2 doubles team at woodland. We had no idea what we were doing, but Coach Moore saw the potential in us, and it ended up being a blast for many years to come. Coach Moore was a genuine, caring, and fun coach to play for.

Michelle Galyen-Burton

June 15, 2017

Coach Moore was a favorite teacher of mine at RCHS. He always welcomed each student into the classroom with a smile. I recall him playing "Hope You Dance" for the class and telling us to make the most out of life. He was truly an inspiration and a light in this world. My condolences to the Moore family.

Doug Keylon

June 15, 2017

KK, Keely and family, so sorry to hear and our hearts are saddened learning of Steve's passing! We truly enjoyed getting to know him. Will be praying for you all!

Betsy Marshall Whitehead

June 15, 2017

So sorry for your loss. Mr. Moore was easily one of the best teachers to ever teach at Woodland High School. We all count ourselves lucky to have had him as our teacher. So funny, kind and had the best sayings, my favorite (that I still repeat today) is, "I'm so hungry my belly is about to eat my ribs!" Prayers for your family. ❤

Sue Dunlap

June 15, 2017

Randy, Keely, and family, My heart breaks for you as you mourn this tremendous loss. I know the impact he had on your lives and the lives of so many young people. I will hold you in my thoughts and prayers.
Sue Dunlap

Stephanie McClure Huskey

June 15, 2017

Family, My heart is broken for all of you. Please know that Steve lives on through his tremendous influence including how he made a difference in my life. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Tonya Brown

June 15, 2017

I can remember when he asked me to let Sasha play AAU. I said play what?he just laughed and explained I had a funny look on my face when he said she's an animal and I want to turn her into a beast. She hung on every word Steve said. I am truly sorry for your family's loss,praying for comfort from God for all of you.

Kally Kienlen

June 15, 2017

Coach Moore made such an impact in my life. He constantly had words of wisdom and loved life more than any individual I have ever met. I will never forget his awesome smile, his great stories, and his amazing passion for life. I love you Coach Moore. You truly were my hero.

Erik Gray

June 15, 2017

One of my all-time favorite teachers. Steve Moore was a coach, a mentor, a teacher and a friend. The Sevier County High School Class of 1989 voted him as the teacher they admired the most.

He loved to joke around, but when he got in the classroom and on the basketball court, he got down to business.

His smile always lit up the room. His smile lit up our days at Sevier County High School. His impact has carried through the generations of people who learned from him.

Teachers matter immensely. Rest In Peace, coach. Much love.

Jewell Lawson

June 15, 2017

Buffy, Our deepest condolences and sympathies for your loss. There are no words of comfort I can give you at this time to ease your pain;I truly wish there were. Please just know you and your family are in my prayers. My heart breaks for your loss. Much love. Jewell & Jim Lawson and Family

Kelly Brown-Whited

June 15, 2017

I know your smile can only make heaven brighter! You were such a positive influence on so many and I will treasure the time I knew you as a teacher, coach and friend! May God bless each of you at this difficult time!

Martha Ellwood

June 15, 2017

KK and Keely, So sorry for your loss. Praying for Gods peace and love to surround you I had met Steve at the pool last summer. May he Rest In Peace with Jesus. Love and Hugs to you both❤

Renee McCracken

June 15, 2017

Steve Moore was one of the kindest men I have ever met. He would light up a room. I have spent lots of hours in his home and he loved his family dearly. Steve was one of a kind, that made the world a better place. You will be so missed.

James Cotter

June 18, 2017

We are sorry to hear of Steve's death. Your family are in our thoughts and prayers. James and Susan Cotter

Mike and Stephanie Coppinger

June 18, 2017

We are praying for your family

Sandy Brown

June 18, 2017

He was my son Steven Brown mid school coach at Ocoee middle. Great coach and a fine man.

Jonas Minhinnett

June 17, 2017

Very sorry for your loss. Steve was a great man and he will be missed. Coach taught us to play bb with heart,discipline and to play tough. I hope my the boys I coach remember me as fondly one day as I remember Coach.

Elliott Stroupe

June 17, 2017

I met Steve Moore in my young days as a Boys’ Club staff member. Later he became an integral part of what became a premier sports program at the Club, not just locally but nationwide. Steve was a dynamic coach and teacher. I read where he was described as a “renaissance” man. This adjective is profoundly accurate. He came from humble circumstances and continually worked toward self-improvement. I learned much from Steve. My teams incorporated many of the offensive concepts he shared.

In my opinion the characteristic that made him so successful as a coach and teacher was his genuine interest in the welfare of kids, a trait they quickly discerned. It was a privilege to know Steve; he will be missed.

He left an incredible legacy in many ways.

Larry Kugler

June 17, 2017

We were so sorry to hear about Steve's passing. We were fortunate to have him in our lives, only for a few years, but we remember them fondly. A wonderful example of a husband and father evidenced by the obvious devotion of KK and Keely. Steve coached our children's high school basketball teams, besides the honorable profession of molding young minds in the classroom, we were very appreciative and impressed by his leadership of the young men he coached. He convinced young men to believe in themselves and in place of some of the more common tactics, he lifted them up. He convinced them that he saw greatness in them and demonstrated the faith he had in them by the trust he placed in them. He will be missed by many I am sure.

Heather Maples

June 17, 2017

I'm so sorry to hear of Coach Moore.I was blessed to be coached by him in middle school and be a part of his softball team. We all can rejoice knowing that we will be reunited with him again some day. My prayers are with you all.

Marvin Peek

June 16, 2017

In 1980, I went to play baseball for the city league at the boys club (BC). The city always had BC #1 (BC1) and BC #2 (BC2). BC2 never beat BC1 because BC1 was the strong team and BC2 were basically made up of who was left. Well, they let me slip through the cracks (I pitched) since they'd never heard of me and Coach Moore made 'em pay. :-) We beat BC1 and MAY have won the City League. I can't remember. I never, EVER forgot Coach Moore. I remember the FIRST DAY of practice he announced that if anyone missed a practice, they were off the team. Talk about getting someones attention! When it was all said and done, every single one of us would have run through a brick wall for him. He really did get the most out of us. It's such a sad loss but, wow, did he touch and leave an impact on SO many lives. He will be missed...

Showing 1 - 52 of 52 results

Make a Donation
in Stephen Moore's name

How to support Stephen's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Stephen Moore's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Stephen Moore's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 2, 2017

Ralph Harness posted to the memorial.

June 20, 2017

Gary Thompson posted to the memorial.

June 18, 2017

James Cotter posted to the memorial.