Dr. Laurence Dale Moore, known to most as Larry, passed away on February 27, 2025, at the age of 87. A man of joyful spirit, unwavering dedication, and overwhelming kindness, Larry left an indelible mark on his professional career , his personal accomplishments, and upon the lives of those who knew him.
Born in Danville, Illinois, on July 12, 1937, His love of plants led him to the University of Illinois, where he earned his B.S. in 1959. Larry initially thought he might own a simple flower shop, but his passion for plant science took him to The Pennsylvania State University, where he obtained his M.S. in 1961 and his Ph.D. in 1965 in Plant Pathology. He flourished at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, first as a professor and ultimately Head of the Department of Plant Pathology, Physiology, and Weed Science from 1967 to 1997. He co-directed the Minority Academic Opportunities Program and served as Special Assistant to the Provost for Diversity until his retirement in 2003.
During his career in education, Larry received numerous awards for his groundbreaking contributions and tireless advocacy for affirmative action and diversity in academia. He served on committees and panels for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the National Science Foundation (NSF). He even traveled to Africa to assist with air pollution research. His commitment to advancing education helped shape policy, research, and minority grants alongside contributing to the future of others in his field.
In addition to his professional achievements, Larry dedicated his time and energy to community service, mentorship and fundraising. A lifelong supporter of the Boy Scouts of America, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1954 and remained deeply involved in Scouting throughout his life. His contribution was recognized with the Silver Beaver Award and the 100th Anniversary National Hall of Leadership Award for the Blue Ridge Mountains Council, which honors his profound impact on generations of young Scouts. Along with scouting, he served his community in other ways. He was an active "Paul Harris Fellow" member of the Rotary Club since 1994. He received the Father McGivney Award, two Colombian Awards, the Founders Award and a Star Council Award during his years in the Knights of Columbus, embodying their missions of service and faith.
In his retirement, Larry found new ways to channel his boundless energy. He joined-- and excelled-- in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, becoming an awarded flotilla commander who took great joy in teaching boater safety as well as patroling Claytor Lake in VA. He also made time to embrace the social joys of life, participating in bridge clubs, supper clubs, and book clubs, where he forged lasting friendships.
Larry and his beloved wife, Mary Ann, shared a passion for travel. In their retirement, they visited new places together, embracing each journey as an opportunity to experience the world's beauty, culture, and history. They also found joy in traveling with close friends, discovering new places, meeting new people, and making memories that would last a lifetime.
At home, Larry found solace in his gardens, cultivating beautiful, flourishing landscapes that reflected his love for nature. His gardens were riots of color, while simultaneously places of reflection, peace, and shared moments with family and friends.
Above all else, Larry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was married to the love of his life, Mary Ann (Pichon) Moore, for 66 wonderful years until her passing in September 2024. Larry was also predeceased by his beloved children, Ellen Spring Moore and Steven Dale Moore, losses that he carried with quiet strength and resilience.
Larry's legacy lives on in his family: son, Jean Martin Moore (Kim) and daughter, Susan Moore; six cherished grandchildren: Karmen Bonar (Justin), Khloe Moore, Eliot Moore (Hannah), Brandon Harless (Britney), Courtney Moore, and Eric Moore. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren who brought him immense joy: Jake, Julian, Ellen Hope, Jack, Orion, Jameson, Naomi, Chance, and Cora. He adored his family and took great pride in their accomplishments and activities, always offering encouragement, wisdom, and love to all.
Though Larry's academic and professional contributions were extraordinary, it was his warmth, generosity, and unwavering kindness that endeared him to so many. His wisdom and mentorship extended far beyond the classroom.
As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose, passion, and profound love. Larry Moore's legacy will continue in the many lives he touched, the students he inspired, and the family and friends who will carry his memory forward.
A funeral Mass will be held to honor Larry's remarkable life at St. Mary Catholic Church in Shelby, NC on Friday, March 28 at 1:00PM with Fr. Peter Ascik officiating. Friends are also welcome to join our celebration of his life at his inurnment at St Jude Roman Catholic Church, located at 1740 Tyler Rd, Christiansburg, VA at 2PM on April 26, 2025. Rest in peace, Larry. Your generosity, kindness, and love will never be forgotten.
Online condolences can be made at www.stameytysingerfuneralhome.com.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Stamey-Tysinger Funeral Home & Cremation Center-Fallston, 846 E. Stagecoach Trail Fallston, NC 28042, (704) 538-8631.