Lonny Russell Moore, 79, of Bethany Beach, Delaware and Gainesville, Florida passed away on Friday November 1st, 2019. Born in Norristown, Pennsylvania on February 2nd 1940, he was preceded in death by his parents Russell and Dorothy Moore, and is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Joyce Shaner Moore, his sister Zoann MacFarland, his daughter Amanda and her husband Kevin O’Leary, and his grandchildren Madison and Ryan. Coach Moore graduated from Norristown High School in 1957. He went on to wrestle and play football for the Rams of West Chester University where he graduated in 1963 with his Bachelor of Science; later completing his masters of Physical Education from the University of Bridgeport. He began his professional career in the Spring-ford Area School District in 1963. He then took his talents to Phoenixville Area High School where he held many positions in both the academic and athletic departments for the next 35 years. He was both a health and physical education teacher as well as department chairman winning the “Outstanding Educator in America” award several times in his tenure. He also coached football, wrestling, track and field and women’s tennis for the Phantoms leading numerous teams to league championships collecting both the “PAC 10 Legend” and the “Most Influential” Coaching Awards. As a revered wrestling coach, Lonny had three undefeated teams boasting a formidable win-loss record of 160-51-5. He was inducted into the District 1 Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Pennsylvania Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2005. He also served on the District 1 Steering Committee for 37 years, 30 of those as Chairman. In the years following his retirement, the family moved to Bethany Beach and he became a member of several civic committees as well as an active organizer of the town’s Fourth of July celebration. Lonny could often be seen relaxing by the Bethany West pool or laughing with friends and family on the Wellington Street Beach. His greatest passion was watching and cheering on his beloved grandchildren and his daughter’s team. Coach Moore will always be remembered for his humor, generosity, dedication and genuine interest in all his students, colleagues, friends and family. He will be missed immensely but his memory will continue to live on through the stories and memories of those he impacted throughout his incredible 79 years. A private memorial service was held for immediate family. In his memory donations can be made to the Lonny Moore Scholarship Fund at: Phoenixville Education Community Foundation P.O. Box 348 Phoenixville, Pa 19460 or online at pcefonline.com/donate. Milam Funeral and Cremation Services 311 S. Main Street Gainesville, FL www.milamfh.com (352) 376-5361

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Published by The Mercury from Nov. 12 to Nov. 17, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Lonny Moore

Sponsored by Pottsmerc.com.

13 Entries

Jim Murphy

April 16, 2023

I was in Mr. Moore's physical education class in my senior year 1971-72. One day we practiced on the trampoline and I hit the edge where the springs are and got a bloody nose. Mr. Moore gave me an "A" for the day and patted me on the back. He was one of the most admired faculty members and I'll never forget him. RIP Mr. Moore.

Mark Stipa

November 20, 2019

Mr. Lonny Moore was my co-op for student teaching in my last semester at West Chester University. His ability to connect with students, other staff members, and people in general amazed me. When I went on to a teaching' coaching, and administrative career I tried to emulate him in every way. Besides my parents, he was one of the most influential people in my life. I am saddened to hear of his passing. I wish his family comfort and peace. He was the best.

Sal and Sylvia Katz

November 19, 2019

Syl and I join so many others in extending our finest condolences on the passing of Coach Moore.

Mike Smith

November 18, 2019

Coach Moore would do anything to help a student. I was there in the late 70's and I appreciate all he did for me. Thanks again Coach.

Henry Mary Ellen

November 18, 2019

Lonny was like a Whirling Dervishes gone from one project to the next and working every day in the summer for Bethany West and on the Bethany Beach 4th of July Parade.

A person like Lonny comes along once in your life if you are lucky - just like Halleys Comet they come along once every 75 to 76 years.

I am gone to miss you my friend and thank you for your friendship.

November 18, 2019

God Bless . Lonnie was an outstanding individual. I had the opportunity to know him for many years. We lost a top notch quality person . Dave Strock

Eric Knight

November 16, 2019

My prayers is with your family.
Mr. Moore, Coach, was one of the greatest men I have had the pleasure of meeting in my life. I met Coach Moore while attending PHS. He took me under his wing not only as a football player, but as a young man as well.
I don't know if people really knew how special this man was. During my last two years of high school, Coach would drive out his way every morning and pick me up and take me to school. Not because he had to but because he always told me I don't have to be a product of my environment. Mr Moore was one of the few people who knew I was homeless my senior year. He would bring me to school in the morning, Allow me to go into the boys locker room and sleep. He would then give me breakfast or pay me for cleaning up the locker room. It was his way of just making sure I ate that day. Mr. Moore would often ask me what am I going to do when school is over. Often I could be found in his office in the mornings and him helping me with my class work.
I'm writing this to let his family know the impact their husband, father friend, had on my life. The last thing Coach said to me in 1987 after graduating was I know your going to make it, don't give up
To The family of Mr. Moore, I was blessed to have a man influence me, encouraged me when no one else did! Due to the major encouragement of Coach, I went on to graduate from college, obtain my masters become a educator and now a Principal.
Thank you Coach!
Rest in Heaven!
Eric Knight

Alison Seeley-Hurd

November 14, 2019

Oh the stories my dad Don Seeley told me about Lonnie and was always a treat for us to visit when he and his wife lived in Royersford. I looked up to Mr Moore as so many did, he was an amazing man. I hope everyone finds some peace in the coming days and months ahead. This world lost a fine man, we are all feeling a little less without his spirit on earth but I'm sure he's making a name for himself in heaven! Rest In Peace Mr. Moore. Love Alison and the Seeley family.

George Schenck

November 14, 2019

Coach,
I will always remember you being there to provide support for myself or any of the team. You really helped shape many of us Into the men we grew up to be. Thanks for pushing us!!

Joseph Kovach

November 14, 2019

Lonnie: One of the greats,always told it like it was. will always be missed for his great work for the Phoenixville Area. Joe Kovach Maint. worker

Joe Melchiorre

November 13, 2019

Lonnie, R.I.P. I remember you being a nice guy & your parents as well, having grown up on Perkiomen Avenue, in Oaks. I do remember your smile.

Rita Deugwillo

November 13, 2019

Joyce, we just heard the sad news about Lon. So sorry. We only saw him briefly this past summer, knowing he wanted privacy. We will remember his always optimistic personality. He will he missed on Fairway Drive.

Jenn Carter

November 13, 2019

So sorry for your loss. I knew Lonny through the Bethany Beach Fourth of July Committee. At our meetings, I enjoyed his quick 'take' on topics that gave us better resolutions, and sometimes a laugh! Lonny's generosity, commitment, and hard work will be missed!

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