Obituary of Barry Thomas Moore

Barry Thomas Moore of Auburndale, Florida entered into rest on March 10^th, 2023. 

Born in 1959 as the first child of Robert B. And Shirley A. (Smith) Moore in Murphysboro, Illinois, Barry was a lifelong lover of agriculture and surrounded himself with all things to do with the outdoors. He would go on to share this love with others throughout his life. Barry was also dedicated to protecting his family and country and served in the United States Army and in the Army National Guard for many years. It was his honor to give back to the nation that granted him so many of the freedoms he loved. Later in life, his work with the Boy Scouts of America as a troop leader for the Lake Region District saw him ascend to the post of District Chairman. In 2009 he earned one of the highest scouting honors for leaders, a Silver Beaver Award for showing exceptional character and providing distinguished service to the Gulf Ridge Council in Tampa, Florida. Barry was a true animal lover; he along with his wife were Dalmatian showmen and competed around the Midwest winning several awards and distinctions. Along with his children and wife, the Moores saved multiple Dalmatians, and at one point fostered more than 20 in their home at the same time. 

Barry’s dedication to others did not end there. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Florida Southern College in Business Administration and founded his own business, Superior Exteriors of Central Florida. The business was his passion, giving him great joy to use his skills and expertise in agriculture and interpersonal relationships as part of his daily work. At home Barry built a substantial garden with his grandson. It was his favorite time when he and his “little farmer” could be outside learning how things grew and tending to their plants. 

Barry was always someone with a warm and welcoming smile and a deep hearty laugh. His many unique adventures made for thrilling tales for anyone who would listen. Family was at the center of his life and many great memories were built sitting around dining tables sipping on sweet tea sharing life lessons, games, ideas, and stories. He was always willing to help anyone in need and give all he had for others, no matter if it was lending a tool, tending a yard, or working on a project. 

Barry is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 37 years Karen K. (Cottonaro) Moore, his son Trenton M. Moore of Brooklyn, New York, his daughter Mallory K. (Aaron S.) McElwee of Auburndale Florida, and his daughter Sarah C. Moore of Minneapolis, Minnesota as well as his grandchildren Collin E. McElwee (Mallory and Aaron), Bailey A. and Bishop X. Mason (Sarah). He additionally leaves behind his father and stepmother, Robert B. Moore and Mary C. Cripps-Moore of Murphysboro Illinois, sister Sherrie L. Neumeier and niece Hannah L. Neumeier of St. Louis, Missouri, nephew, J. Samuel Neumeier of Festus, Missouri, and mother-in-law Patricia L. Cottonaro of Murphysboro, Illinois. He is preceded in death by his mother Shirley A (Smith) Moore, and all his grandparents. 

Memorial services will be held at a later date in Murphysboro, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, please visit flsouthern.edu/give to donate to the Florida Southern College Scholarship Fund in his memory.