Deacon Jessie Lee McMoore

Mr. Jessie Lee McMoore, a pillar of his community and a devoted servant of God, peacefully transitioned from this life on March 21, 2026, at the age of 97. His life was a testament to his unwavering faith, humble service, and steadfast devotion to both his church and his family.

Mr. McMoore was a lifelong and faithful member of Union Baptist Church, where he served diligently in numerous capacities throughout the years. His roles included: Acting Superintendent of Sunday School,Sunday School Teacher, Deacon, custodian, bus driver, member of the Brotherhood, Willing Workers, Silver Eagles Senior Ministry and caretaker of the church grounds and cemetery. No task was too small or too great when it came to serving the Lord and his church family.

A lover of gospel music, Mr. McMoore sang in a quartet group for many years and was an active member of both the hymn choir and mass choir. One of his greatest joys in ministry was organizing the Union Gospel Singers. He devoted countless hours to this ministry, faithfully transporting the choir to gospel programs across South Carolina and North Carolina. Whether on Friday nights, Saturdays, or Sundays, he found true joy in spreading God’s message through music and fellowship.

Mr. McMoore also found joy in the outdoors. He was an avid hunter who often hunted rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, possums, and deer alongside his beloved hunting dogs, generously sharing his harvest with the community. He enjoyed fishing, both alone and deep-sea fishing with his sisters. His favorite pastime, however, was gardening. What began as a small backyard garden grew into a large field that became a community garden, enjoyed and appreciated by many.

He was also a devoted and lifelong member of the following masonic houses. Four Cross Lodge 109, Prince of Peace No. 25, Lancaster Consistory 254,and Menzel Temple 35. He got involved in the prison ministry where he would go every Sunday Morning before church to spread the word of God which initiated the prison ministry at Union Baptist Church.

He attended Rock Hill Public Schools and later worked as a skilled concrete finisher at Metromont Concrete Company until his retirement. In addition, he was self-employed as a contractor in the concrete industry and also worked with Johnson Funeral Home. He was widely known for his strong work ethic, humility, and quiet strength.

Mr. McMoore was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Catherine Boyd McMoore; his sons, Arthur Charles McMoore and Gregory McMoore; hisdaughter, Carolyn McMoore (James, deceased); and his great-grandchild, Zuri A. Norman. He was also preceded in death by his mother, Ammie McMoore Simpson; his brothers, Jerry McMoore and Joe McMoore; and his sisters, Mary Stroud, Martha Jackson, Helen Hemphill, and Sally Shaw.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving daughter, Jessica McMoore of Columbia, SC; his nephew, whom he raised as a son, Winslow McMoore (Phyllis), Waxhaw, NC; his grandson, whom he also helped raise, Jeston L. McMoore (Tiffany), Columbia, SC; James Locke, grandson of the home; and Shelisha Locke, granddaughter of the home and two loving daughter in laws, Roberta McMoore and Shelia McMoore. He is also survived by his sisters, Betty Johnson, Barbara Smith, New Jersey and Margie Sutton, California, his brother, John T. Simpson; and nine grandchildren: Catherine D. Kilian, Detroit, MI,Taiwain L. Taylor (Shanari), Columbia, SC, Tomeka M. Ratchford (Lamont); Jeston L. McMoore (Tiffany), Columbia, SC; Latoya McMoore; Shekisha McMoore Lea (Donald), Duluth, GA, Grelonda D. McMoore; Shelisha Y. Locke; and James Lamarick Locke and anhonorary granddaughter Lakeia Killian.

He also leaves fifteen great-grandchildren: Tyson Kimani Taylor; D’Arthur M. Ratchford; Gregory Z. McMoore; Tychelle Kimaya Taylor; Alexavier C. McMoore; Ariel S. Ratchford; Jeston L. McMoore II; Jakenzie L. Locke; Jestic L. McMoore; Jada L. Locke; Comari Aoussou; Melanie Taylor; DeMarcus Lea; Chantel Lea; and Keaundre Hogue; one great-great-grandchild, Million A. Norman; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other loving relatives and dear friends.

Mr. McMoore’s favorite song was “May the Work I’ve Done Speak for Me.” Indeed, his life’s work speaks volumes. He will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his servant’s heart, and the love he shared so freely with all who knew him. His legacy of service and devotion will continue to inspire generations to come.