Willis “Wally” Walding Moore, Jr., a devoted Christian, loving family man, and retired NASA engineer, passed away at the age of 85.
Wally was born on September 10, 1940, in Mt. Vernon, Georgia, to the late Willis Walding Moore, Sr., and Louise McDuffie Moore. A man known for his meekness, calm demeanor, genuine spirit, and patience, he lived his life as a true and devoted Christian. He formerly served as the head deacon of West End Baptist Church and was a dedicated member of the Bethlehem Baptist Church.
In 1963, Wally married the love of his life, Rebecca Grindstaff Moore. Together, they formed an inseparable bond affectionately known as the “G Unit.” Their 62-year marriage was a beautiful testimony to God’s word, reflecting the qualities of love described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. The couple was renowned for doing everything together—including wearing matching clothing, pumping gas side-by-side, and holding hands everywhere they went.
Wally had a distinguished and long career with NASA. He worked on highly classified missions involving the Shuttle Project and Missile Command before transferring to Strategic Defense, where he worked for several years before retiring in 1997.
Above all his professional achievements, Mr. Moore was a loving husband, father, and Granddaddy. He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Rebecca Moore; his son, Monte Moore; his daughter, Keitha (Ed) Towry; his cherished grandchildren, Alicia (Will) Richardson, Kasi (Eric) Letson, Will Moore, Becca (Matt) Towry, Ray (Julie) Towry, Mary Moore, and Melodie Moore; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Conner Holloway, Mattix Richardson, Adaline Richardson, Lennon Smith, Raiden Tarlton, and Krew Towry. In addition to his parents, Wally was preceded in death by his brother, Edwin Moore.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Higgins Funeral Home, with Bro. Joey Self officiating. Interment will follow the service at Higgins Cedar Hills Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends for visitation from 11:30 AM until 1:00 PM on Thursday, prior to the service, at Higgins Funeral Home.
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Willis “Wally” Walding Moore, Jr.
1 Comment To "Willis “Wally” Walding Moore, Jr."
#1 Comment By Kristine On November 16, 2025 @ 7:44 pm
Wally was an excellent listener. He would always take time to pay attention to whatever a person said to him. And when he gently responded back to you, you really paid attention to him. He was soft-spoken but he was well respected and knew what he was talking about!